An emergence of mucormycosis during the COVID‑19 pandemic (Review)

Abstract

Mucormycosis was highly prevalent during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, particularly during the second wave, causing increased health risks to immunosuppressed or compromised individuals. This infection is long-standing, lasting for years, specifically in immunocompromised individuals. There are no apparent risk factors and the fungus affects skin/subcutaneous tissues, resulting in the loss of facial aesthetics. In addition, individuals with a hyperglycaemic condition or diabetes mellitus, the fungus can lead to more severe complications, which are often fatal. While in patients with diabetic ketoacidosis, a high risk of infection with Rhizopus oryzae is observed, with the production of ketoreductase; this enzyme in turn hydrolyses host ketone bodies. Relatively effective medications are becoming available; however, the prognosis of patients affected by this fungus may improve with an increase in awareness and early diagnosis with the intervention of expert surgeons, radiologists and microbiologists to effectively combat the condition. The present review discusses the types, symptoms and available treatment strategies for mucormycosis.