Mucormycosis: A sweet enemy, case series

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Infectious Diseases
• Ophthalmology

Background:

• Mucormycosis is a rare, life-threatening fungal infection caused by Mucorales fungi.
• It primarily affects immunocompromised individuals or those with compromised skin/mucosal barriers.
• Rhinocerebral mucormycosis is a severe form affecting the sinuses and brain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report four cases of rhinocerebral mucormycosis in Cali, Colombia.
• To highlight the association with type 2 diabetes mellitus and poor glycemic control.
• To discuss diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of this rare infection.

Main Methods:

• Case series of four patients with rhinocerebral mucormycosis over three years.
• Diagnosis confirmed by direct visualization of fungal hyphae in biopsies.
• Assessment of patient history, comorbidities (especially diabetes), and treatment response.

Main Results:

• All four patients had type 2 diabetes mellitus with high glycated hemoglobin (>10%).
• Treatment involved liposomal amphotericin B and surgical debridement.
• Outcomes varied: one patient died, one left treatment, and two showed adequate recovery.

Conclusions:

• Uncontrolled diabetes is a significant risk factor for rhinocerebral mucormycosis.
• Prompt diagnosis and aggressive treatment (antifungal therapy and surgery) are vital.
• Effective management requires addressing underlying conditions and potential coinfections.