REVIEW ON MUCORMYCOSIS

Mucormycosis is the third invasive mycosis in order of importance after candidiasis and aspergillosis and is caused by fungi of the class Zygomycetes. The most important species in order of frequency is Rhizopus arrhizus (oryzae). Identification of the agents responsible for mucormycosis is based on macroscopic and microscopic morphological criteria, carbohydrate assimilation and the maximum temperature compatible with its growth. The incidence of mucormycosis is approximately 1.7 cases per1000000 inhabitants per year, and the main risk-factors for the development of mucormycosis are ketoacidosis (diabetic or other), iatrogenic immunosuppression, use of corticosteroids or deferoxamine, disruption of mucocutaneous barriers by catheters and other devices, and exposure to bandages contaminated by these fungi.

The standard guidelines in management of mucormycosis involves early diagnosis, a reversing risk factors and underlying illness, surgical debridement, and immediate intravenous antifungals - usually amphotericin B. This include the prompt management of hyperglycaemia, acidosis, electrolyte imbalance and cessation of immunosuppressive drugs.