OCULAR FUNGAL INFECTIONS IN COVID-19 PATIENTS: EARLY REPORT FROM EGYPT

Purpose: the aim of this study is to evaluate the occurrence of Mucromycosis in the eyes of Covid-19 patients, evaluating risk factors, presentation, treatment, and the fate of these cases. Patients and methods: an observational cross-sectional study involved adult COVID-19 patients in our institute in the period from 1 st July 2021 till 30 th July 2021, the risk factors for fungal infections were identified; the patients were examined by otolaryngology specialist, full ophthalmological examination was done using portable slit lamp and indirect ophthalmoscopy. CT scan was done in Mucromycosis positive patients to assess the invasion and to take treatment decision. Results: 1270 patients were examined, 604 (47.6%) males and 666 (52.4%) females, the mean age was (56.5±3.2) years, we diagnosed 5 patients with Mucromycosis; clinically and laboratory (using fungal culture). The group included 5 patients with +ve laboratory investigations for Mucromycosis the mean age+SD was (59+2.24) with 3 (60%) were males and 2 (40%). 4 (80%) patients were diabetics, 3 (60%) patients were asthmatic, 3 (60%) patients were on ventilators, 2 (40%) patients had renal failure, 2 (40%) patients had cardiac diseases and 2 (40%) patients had malignancies. death rate was( 60%). They presented by different ocular manifestations including blurring of vision, proptosis, disc edema, or necrotic tissue. They were treated by antifungals and surgical intervention in the form of debridement or even orbital exentration.3 of them died due to systemic complications and 2 responded to surgical debridement with antifungals. Conclusion: Mucromycosis occurs in COVID-19 patients especially those with immuncompromizing diseases, aggressive treatment is needed, the death rate is high (60%)