Mucormycosis
(zygomycosis)
Introduction.
Zygomycosis is an opportunistic infection by filamentous coenocytic fungi
such as Mucor or Rhizopus. Two forms can be seen. The cubcutaneous form is
common in Africa, India and other parts of the world. Invasive mucormycosis is seen primarily in immunocompromised patients (AIDS),
particularly those with end-stage diabetes and metabolic acidosis. Invasion of
the palate, eye, and brain from the sinuses is common.
Subcutaneous mucormycosis
- Cause: Conidiobolus coronatus and Basidiobolus ranarum
- Symptoms:
B ranarum causes compact subcutaneous masses of fungi in shoulder, hip, pelvis
or thigh. C. coronatus commonly causes facial or upper lip swelling and
enlargement.
Mucormycosis
- Cause: Rhizopus, Mucor
- Microscopy: coenocytic molds
- Transmission: respiratory
- Symptoms: invasive growth
- Rhinocerebral zygomycosis: invasion of sinuses, eyes, palate, brain
- Colonization of other organs and tissues
- Dissemination with growth in major blood vessels
- Complications: blood clots, circulatory collapse, necrosis
- Pathogenesis: Obstruction of blood flow and tissue destruction
- Treatment: posaconazole
