Profiling of mucormycosis in district of central rural India during COVID-19 pandemic: a record-based study

Abstract

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been associated with a wide range of opportunistic bacterial and fungal infections. Several cases of Mucormycosis in people with COVID-19 have been increasingly reported world-wide, in particular from India. The primary reason that appears to be facilitating Mucorales spores to germinate in people with COVID-19 is an ideal environment of low oxygen (hypoxia), high glucose (diabetes, new onset hyperglycemia, steroid-induced hyperglycemia). Methods: Secondary data was obtained from District health office Wardha. We took Mucormycosis related data for May 2021 to August 2021. A Secondary data analysis was done as an age wise distribution, Sex wise distribution, classification of Mucormycosis and case load in Wardha district. Results: Total cases (overall) was about 132. 91% cases are totally recovered. In overall cases, 106 males and 26 females were affected due to Mucormycosis. Out of 132 cases, 128 cases were of Rhino cerebral type of Mucormycosis. 48% cases of Mucormycosis were from 45 to 60 years old patients.127 cases of Mucormycosis were related with COVID history and only 5 cases of Mucormycosis were not related with COVID history. 53% cases were needed oxygen support prior onset of case. Conclusions: A multidisciplinary strategy should incorporate early diagnosis, antifungal therapy, any necessary surgical consultation and treatment, as well as reversal of the underlying illness. Identification of individuals at risk, strict glycaemic control and avoidance of unnecessary corticosteroid in non-severe COVID-19 cases (normal oxygen saturation on room air) can help in preventing this complication.