Mucormycosis in a Covid-19 pandemic: Insight into the phoenix – A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Mucormycosis is a potentially lethal fungal infection, and the risk of secondary infections is more in patients with COVID-19. This may be because of pre-existing comorbidities or the immunosuppressive treatment taken during the COVID-19 infection. Early diagnosis is of utmost importance for patient survival. Aims and Objectives: This study was designed to grade the patients of rhino-orbital-maxillary mucormycosis in post-COVID-19 patients in a structured way based on the symptoms and clinical and radiographic findings and to find a correlation with various predisposing factors. Materials and Methods: A total of 102 patients with confirmed rhino-orbital-maxillary mucormycosis and a history of COVID-19 recovery, who understand the protocol and can give informed consent, were included in the study. Results: In the present study, 73.5% were found to be males and 26.5% were found to be females. The 31–40 age group was more affected among males, and the 41–50 age group was among females. The most common associated comorbidity was found to be uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. Out of 102 patients, 53.9% patients reported being in grade II, followed by 33.3% in grade III, and 12.7% in grade I. Conclusion: The grading system of rhino-orbital-maxillary mucormycosis was found to be significant; hence, it can be used for the early diagnosis and prevention of severe consequences.

Keywords

• covid-19
• corticosteroids
• diabetes mellitus
• rhino-orbital-maxillary mucormycosis