Mucormycosis: A life-threatening invasive fungal infection

Mucormycosis is a life-threatening invasive fungal infection that primarily affects immunocompromised individuals, particularly those with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus, hematological malignancies, or solid organ transplants. Severe complications, including orbital and central nervous system involvement, may occur.

The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiological, clinical, diagnostic, therapeutic, and outcome characteristics of mucormycosis cases in a tertiary care center.

We conducted a retrospective descriptive case series including all patients diagnosed with mucormycosis and hospitalized in the infectious diseases department between January 2000 and December 2022.

A total of 23 patients were included, with a male predominance (60.8%). Diabetes mellitus was the most common underlying condition (82.6%). The most frequent clinical manifestations were facial swelling (82.6%) and fever (73.9%). Microbiological confirmation was obtained in 78.2% of cases, predominantly identifying Rhizopus oryzae, while histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis in all patients. Rhino-orbito-cerebral involvement was the most frequent presentation (91.3%), followed by cutaneous and abdominal forms. Imaging showed paranasal sinus involvement in 78.2% of cases and cerebral extension in 60.8%. All patients received antifungal therapy with amphotericin B. Surgical management was performed in 69.6% of cases, mainly consisting of surgical debridement and, in severe cases, orbital exenteration. Recovery without sequelae occurred in 34.8% of patients, while mortality reached 30.4% despite appropriate treatment.

Mucormycosis remains a severe invasive fungal infection with high morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis and prompt multidisciplinary management are essential to improve patient outcomes.