Primary Cutaneous Mucormycosis: A Necrotising Soft Tissue Infection with Poor Prognosis

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Infectious Diseases
• Dermatology

Background:

• Cutaneous mucormycosis is a rare but severe fungal infection with a high fatality rate.
• Aggressive surgical debridement and timely antifungal therapy are essential for management.
• High clinical suspicion is vital for surgeons to prevent delayed diagnosis and treatment.

Observation:

• Two fatal cases of cutaneous mucormycosis are presented.
• Case 1: Diabetic patient with a lower leg ulcer.
• Case 2: Patient with a gluteal abscess post-intramuscular injection.

Findings:

• Tissue cultures identified Rhizopus arrhizus and Apophysomyces sp.
• Both patients received amphotericin B and underwent extensive debridement.
• Cutaneous mucormycosis can occur in immunocompetent individuals.

Implications:

• Early recognition of cutaneous mucormycosis as a differential diagnosis for non-healing necrotic ulcers is critical.
• Enhanced training for healthcare staff in primary and secondary centers can improve early detection and patient outcomes.
• Prompt diagnosis and treatment are key to improving the prognosis of this surgical fungal infection.