[Rhino-sinusal mucormycosis in a solid organ transplant recipient]

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Infectious Diseases
• Mycology

Background:

• Kidney transplant recipients are at increased risk for opportunistic infections.
• Immunosuppression is a critical factor in the development of invasive fungal infections.

Observation:

• A 46-year-old female kidney transplant recipient presented with acute sinusitis.
• Rhino-sinusal mucormycosis was diagnosed, a rare angio-invasive fungal infection.

Findings:

• Treatment included surgical debridement, a five-month antifungal course, and cessation of immunosuppressive therapy.
• The patient experienced clinical improvement but lost the kidney allograft.
• Long-term follow-up showed favorable clinical and endoscopic outcomes.

Implications:

• Early diagnosis and prompt management of mucormycosis are vital for patient survival.
• Balancing infection control with immunosuppression management is crucial in transplant patients.
• Mucormycosis, despite treatment, remains a severe condition with potential for significant morbidity.