MUCORMYCOSIS OF MAXILLOFACIAL REGION IN A DIABETIC PATIENT: A CASE REPORT, REVIEW OF LITERATURE AND AN INSIGHT INTO VARIUOS MANAGEMENT MODALLITIES.

Abstract

Fungi of the order Mucorales causes an invasive and potentially lethal infection known as mucormycosis. It is a devastating disease in patients with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus and immunocompromised conditions. The infection either begins in the nose and paranasal sinuses due to inhalation of fungal spores or an ulcer or extraction of teeth aids as portal of entry. The infection can also spread to orbital and intracranial structures either through direct invasion or the blood vessels. It is an aggressive infection that needs to be addressed promptly to prevent fatal consequences. We report a case of maxillary necrosis in an uncontrolled diabetic patient due to mucormycois to emphasize importance early diagnosis and treatment of this potentially fatal fungal infection. We briey review the literature of rhinocerebral mucormycosis in terms of its pathogenesis, portal of entry and predisposing factors, incidence and forms, clinical features, diagnosis, differential diagnosis and various management options.