Case Reports in Ophthalmology (Apr 2021)

Orbital Apex Syndrome due to Orbital Mucormycosis after Teeth Infection: A Successful Case Report

  • Gonçalo Godinho,
  • Isabel Abreu,
  • Gonçalo Alves,
  • Ricardo Vaz,
  • Vitor Leal,
  • Ana Cláudia Carvalho,
  • António Sarmento,
  • Fernando Falcão-Reis

DOI
https://doi.org/10.1159/000510389
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 12, no. 1
pp. 110 – 115

Abstract

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Rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis is a severe and rapidly progressive fungal infection associated with low survival rates. Early diagnosis and proper management are mandatory. We report the case of a 20-year-old female with diabetic ketoacidosis and teeth infection, who presented with sudden orbital apex syndrome. Several surgical procedures were necessary to provide a definite histopathological diagnosis of the fungal infection. Ultimately, given the progressive aggravation of the infection and the ineffectiveness of antifungal and antibiotic agents, an orbital exenteration was performed. A mycobacteriological examination revealed a polymicrobial culture with Mucorales. One year after the initial presentation, the patient is alive and with a good general health condition.

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