Disseminated mucormycosis
What is Disseminated Mucormycosis?
Disseminated mucormycosis is a type of fungal infection that is caused by members of the Mucorales order of fungi. It is an opportunistic infection, usually found in people with weakened immune systems or other underlying health conditions. The infection primarily occurs in the lungs and can spread to other organs or parts of the body, including the brain, skin, stomach, and intestines. Disseminated mucormycosis is typically treated with antifungal medications and/or surgery.
The infection is also known as mucormycosis, an older term for the disease. Also, its name of ‘disseminated’ means it has spread into the body from the point of infection in the lungs.Left untreated, it can be fatal, but most cases respond well to antifungal medications and in some cases surgery to remove infected tissue may be necessary.
Causes of Disseminated Mucormycosis
In general, the fungi that cause Mucormycosis are found in soil and decaying organic matter. When spores enter the lungs, they usually cause no symptoms in healthy people. However, in people with weakened immune systems, the fungal spores may cause an infection. Common conditions that can make people more susceptible to Mucormycosis include:
- Diabetes
- Cancer
- Organ transplants
- Prolonged use of steroid medications
- HIV/AIDS
Symptoms of Disseminated Mucormycosis
The symptoms of Disseminated Mucormycosis often depend on where the infection has spread in the body. Common symptoms can include:
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Fever
- Chest pain
- Skin lesions
- Headache
- Nausea/Vomiting
If the infection has spread to other organs, symptoms such as abdominal pain, confusion, or seizures may occur. If not treated quickly, Disseminated Mucormycosis can be fatal.
Treatment of Disseminated Mucormycosis
The treatment of Disseminated Mucormycosis usually involves both antifungal medications and surgery, depending on the severity of the infection. Common antifungal medications used to treat Disseminated Mucormycosis include Amphotec, Voriconazole, Posaconazole, and Itraconazole. Surgery may be necessary if the infection has caused extensive tissue damage or if the antifungal medications are not effective.
In addition to antifungal medications and surgery, Disseminated Mucormycosis treatment may also include supportive measures, such as IV fluids and oxygen therapy, to help manage symptoms and reduce complications. patients who have weakened immune systems may require additional treatment for the underlying condition to help prevent recurrence.