Challenges in the management of severe cutaneous mucormycosis: A case of rapid progression in uncontrolled diabetes mellitus with polymicrobial implications

Abstract

Mucormycosis, a rare but life-threatening fungal infection, poses significant challenges in clinical management, particularly in patients with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. This case report presents the clinical journey of a 44-year-old woman who developed a rapidly progressing Mucorales infection following a domestic knife injury. Her condition, complicated by diabetic ketoacidosis and co-infection with Candida albicans, led to severe hand phlegm and sepsis. Despite aggressive intervention, the infection continued to advance, ultimately resulting in the patient’s demise.

Keywords

• Cutaneous mucormycosis
• Mucorales
• Candida albicans
• Diabetes mellitus
• Diabetic ketoacidosis