Rhino-Orbital-Cerebral-Mucormycosis: The Importance of Urgent Assessment

Boynes AC1,2*, Schuringa R1,3, Hickey DG1,2, Reynolds G1,3 and Khong JJ1,2

1Austin Health, Heidelberg, Australia
2The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Australia
3The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia

^*Correspondance to: Antony Boynes 

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Abstract:

A case report highlighting the importance of early assessment and intervention in treating ROCM. This paper is particularly relevant as we are seeing a concerning increase in the incidence of ROCM associated to COVID-19. A 67-year-old female had a delayed diagnosis of ROCM confirmed with radiological and microbiological findings. Her predisposing risk factors included end-stage renal disease, aplastic anemia with neutropenia, and iron overload requiring deferoxamine infusions. Management included surgical debridement of paranasal sinuses, orbital exenteration and systemic antifungal treatment. The disease progressed despite this management, with the development of multifocal fungal cerebritis and superimposed ischemic infarcts. The patient died five days after the cessation of treatment. ROCM is a life-threatening emergency. ROCM should be considered in all at risk patients who present with common sinus symptoms and disproportionate facial pain, especially when associated with red flags such as ophthalmoplegia, vision loss and facial numbness.

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Cite the Article:

Boynes AC, Schuringa R, Hickey DG, Reynolds G, Khong JJ. Rhino- Orbital-Cerebral-Mucormycosis: The Importance of Urgent Assessment. Ann Clin Case Rep. 2023; 8: 2393..