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[Zygomycosis in childhood. A report of 2 cases]
R Figueroa-Damián1, F E Torres-González
1Hospital de Infectología, Centro Médico La Raza, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, D. F., México.
Abstract:
Zygomycosis is a fungal infection which shows a definitive predisposition to attack the compromised host. It is usually associated with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus (DM). In the early infancy the cutaneous and gastrointestinal forms are the most frequent, in older children the most recognized form is that in which the primary impact of the infection is upon facial and intracranial structures. We report two cases of zygomycosis, the first patient was a 15 years old girl with a know systemic lupus erythematosus, and the second was a 14 years old boy with a insulin-dependent type I DM. Both were treated with anphotericin B and aggressive surgical intervention. The favorable outcome was attributed to a prompt diagnosis, early initiation of anphotericin B, surgical intervention and a control of the underlying illness.
Insights
Zygomycosis, a serious fungal infection, often affects immunocompromised individuals, particularly those with diabetes mellitus. Early diagnosis and treatment with amphotericin B and surgery are crucial for favorable outcomes in pediatric cases.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Zygomycosis is a rare but severe fungal infection.
- It primarily affects immunocompromised individuals, especially those with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (DM).
- Common forms in infants include cutaneous and gastrointestinal, while older children often present with facial and intracranial involvement.
Observation:
- This report details two pediatric cases of zygomycosis.
- The first patient was a 15-year-old female with systemic lupus erythematosus.
- The second patient was a 14-year-old male with insulin-dependent type I diabetes mellitus.
Findings:
- Both patients received treatment with amphotericin B and underwent aggressive surgical intervention.
- Prompt diagnosis and early initiation of treatment were key factors.
- Effective management of the underlying conditions (systemic lupus erythematosus and diabetes mellitus) was essential.
Implications:
- This case study highlights the importance of prompt diagnosis and multidisciplinary management for zygomycosis in pediatric patients.
- Aggressive treatment, including antifungal therapy and surgery, combined with control of comorbidities, leads to favorable outcomes.
- Raising awareness of zygomycosis in at-risk pediatric populations is critical for early detection and intervention.