Mucormycosis

Definition

Mucormycosis is a serious fungal infection caused by molds belonging to the Mucorales order. It primarily affects immunocompromised individuals and can manifest in various forms, including pulmonary mucormycosis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pulmonary mucormycosis often occurs in patients with weakened immune systems, such as those with uncontrolled diabetes or undergoing chemotherapy.
2. The fungi responsible for mucormycosis are commonly found in soil, decaying organic matter, and even on bread mold.
3. Symptoms of pulmonary mucormycosis include fever, cough, chest pain, and shortness of breath, which can be mistaken for other respiratory infections.
4. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies like CT scans and laboratory tests including tissue biopsy and culture to identify the causative fungus.
5. Treatment usually requires a combination of antifungal medications like amphotericin B and surgical debridement to remove infected tissue.

Review Questions

• What are the common symptoms of pulmonary mucormycosis?
• Which patient populations are most at risk for developing mucormycosis?
• What are the key steps involved in diagnosing pulmonary mucormycosis?

Related terms

Aspergillosis: A respiratory infection caused by Aspergillus species, commonly affecting immunocompromised individuals.

Candidiasis: A fungal infection caused by Candida species, often affecting the mouth, throat, and lungs.

Cryptococcosis: A serious fungal disease caused by Cryptococcus neoformans, primarily affecting the lungs and central nervous system.