Rhizopus osteomyelitis. A case report and review

Area of Science:

• Mycology
• Infectious Diseases
• Hematology

Background:

• Mucormycosis osteomyelitis is typically linked to rhinocerebral infections.
• Neutropenia and anemia can predispose individuals to invasive fungal infections.

Observation:

• A patient with corticosteroid-dependent neutropenia and anemia developed femur osteomyelitis.
• The causative agent was identified as Mucoraceae Rhizopus.
• The infection was presumed to be hematogenous in origin due to the absence of a primary focus.

Findings:

• Lymphocyte analysis revealed depressed cellular immunity but a specific response to Rhizopus extract.
• Systemic amphotericin B treatment was administered.
• The treatment successfully prevented further progression of the osteomyelitis.

Implications:

• This case expands the understanding of mucormycosis osteomyelitis presentation and potential origins.
• Highlights the importance of considering hematogenous spread in immunocompromised patients.
• Demonstrates the efficacy of amphotericin B in treating rare fungal bone infections.