MUCORMYCOSIS

What is Mucormycosis?

A guest post by Aparna Rane

Mucormycosis is a fungal infection caused by a group of molds called mucormycetes. These fungi live throughout the environment, particularly in soil and in decaying organic matter, such as leaves, compost piles, or rotten wood.They are more common in soil than in air.Infection occurs through contact with these spores from the environment.These fungi aren’t harmful to most people. Infection usually occur in people who have health problems or take medicines that lower the body’s ability to fight germs and sickness(immune compressed people).Prompt diagnosis and early treatment are critical.

 

Types of mucormycosis

• Rhinocerebral (sinus and brain) mucormycosis
• Pulmonary (lung) mucormycosis
• Gastrointestinal mucormycosis
• Cutaneous (skin) mucormycosis
• Disseminated mucormycosis

Symptoms of Mucormycosis

The symptoms of mucormycosis depend on where in the body the fungus is growing. Below are few symptoms: 

• One-sided facial swelling
• Headache
• Nasal or sinus congestion
• Black lesions on nasal bridge or upper inside of mouth that quickly become more severe
• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Blisters or ulcer

Diagnosis and testing for Mucormycosis

For mucormycosisof lungs or sinuses, fluid sample may be tested. A tissue biopsy, in which a small sample of affected tissue is done.Tests such as a CT scan of your lungs, sinuses, or other parts of your body is done depending on the location of the suspected infection.

 

 

 

Risk & Prevention

Mucormycosis is rare, but it’s more common among people who have health problems or have weak immune system.Mucormycosis can’t spread between people or between people and animals.

• For prevention of infection, protect yourself from the environment.
• It’s important to note that although these actions are recommended, they haven’t been proven to prevent mucormycosis.
• Wear N95 mask to prevent from dust.
• Avoid direct contact with water-damaged buildings and flood water after hurricanes and natural disasters.
• Wear shoes, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt when doing outdoor activities such as gardening, yard work, or visiting wooded areas.
• Wear gloves when handling materials such as soil, moss, or manure.
• To reduce the chances of developing a skin infection, clean skin injuries well with soap and water, especially if they have been exposed to soil or dust.

Reference:https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/mucormycosis/index.html

Posted by Dr. Tim Sandle, Pharmaceutical Microbiology Resources (http://www.pharmamicroresources.com/)