Mucormycosis

Mucormycosis : Recently, a large-scale study by the Indian Council of Medical Research revealed that survivors of mucormycosis continue to suffer from severe post-recovery complications.

o Published in Clinical Microbiology and Infection, this is the first national prospective study in India assessing the long-term outcomes of mucormycosis patients.

• Key Findings: The study recorded a 14 % one-year mortality rate, with most deaths occurring during the initial hospitalisation. Risk factors included brain or eye involvement, ICU admission, uncontrolled diabetes, and multiple comorbidities.

o Over 70% of survivors experienced at least one serious post-recovery complication, such as facial disfigurement, speech difficulties, mental health distress, or loss of employment.

• About Mucormycosis : A rare but serious fungal infection caused by a group of molds known as mucormycetes. It is commonly referred to as ‘Black Fungus’.

o It primarily affects individuals with weakened immune systems or underlying conditions such as : Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, Prolonged ICU stay, Use of steroids or immunosuppressants, Organ transplant recipients and Patients on voriconazole therapy

o Mode of Infection: Most commonly acquired by inhaling spores present in the air.

- Can also infect through wounds, burns, or skin injuries.

- In severe cases, it may spread to the brain or other internal organs.

o Types : Rhinocerebral: Sinus infection that can reach the brain; common in diabetics.

- Pulmonary: Lung infection in cancer or transplant patients.

- Gastrointestinal: Affects the gut; seen in premature infants.

- Cutaneous: Skin infection through wounds; occurs in healthy individuals.

- Disseminated: Spreads via blood to organs; seen in severely ill patients.