Disseminated fatal mucormycosis in a relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemic child

Abstract

Despite the recent advances in the pharmacotherapeutics of pediatric cancer, opportunistic invasive fungal infections still cause a significant mortality and morbidity in these immunocompromised population, being attributed to the continuous marrow suppression and aggressive chemotherapy. Mucormycosis is the third leading invasive fungal infection after candidiasis and aspergillosis. The elusive presentation and the pleiotropic clinical features of this rare, yet rapidly progressive and frequently fatal infection often cause diagnostic delays, thereby resulting in poor outcomes. A physician's early suspicion and preemptive treatment remains the important key element in the early identification, irrespective of the technological advancements. We report a case of disseminated mucormycosis in a child with relapsed acute lymphoblastic leukemia, who eventually succumbed to death despite timely intervention and appropriate treatment due to aggressive nature of the invasive fungal infection.