Imaging in Covid-19 associated mucormycosis: a case series

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Mucormycosis is a very rare saprophytic, opportunistic fungal infection with high morbidity and mortality. With the Covid-19 pandemic, there is a sudden increase in the incidence of this disease due to causes not clearly known. Methods: Retrospective clinic-radiological analysis of a series of seven microbiologically confirmed cases of Covid-19 associated mucormycosis (CAM) treated at our tertiary care center in 2021 was done. Results: All patients were middle-aged with a mean age of 47 years. All patients had poor glycemic control. Three patients were on oxygen support and were given steroids during Covid-19 treatment. Symptoms were facial pain, swelling, headache, eyelid swelling, and nasal block. All patients underwent contrast MRI to study the extent of tissue involvement. MRI helped in complete surgical debridement with minimal deformity. Conclusion: Judicious use of immunosuppressants and strict glycemic control vital during covid-19 treatment. Contrast MRI is the investigation of choice to identify the extent of involvement in surgical planning.