Rhinocerebral mucormycosis: an unusual case presentation

Abstract

Rhinocerebral mucormycosis is a rapidly fatal fungal disease which involves the nose, paranasal sinuses, orbit and central nervous system. The fungal infection is usually secondary to immunosuppression, diabetic acidosis, or antibiotic, steroid or cytotoxic therapy. It can also occur in patients suffering from burns, malignancy and haematological disorders. Current treatment consists of correction of the underlying disorder, repeated debridement of the wound in combination with intravenous amphotericin B. This paper describes our experience with a case of rhinocerebral mucormycosis. This is an unusual case in which mucormycosis was seen in a young female where no underlying cause was found. She responded to surgical debridement in combination with intravenous amphotericin B.