Mucormycosis (phycomycosis) is an infection resulted from a fungus, called mucorales. Subcutaneous Mucormycosis (under the skin)  is a type of infection that occurs in Africa and Southeast Asia.

Generally, the condition heals without treatment; however, it may result in grotesque swelling under chest and neck skin. Rhinocerebral Mucormycosis (brain and nose mucormycosis) occurs in the United States and is a serious and generally  fatal infection. Such type of Mucormycosis usually affects individuals whose body is weakened by diseases, for example, uncontrolled diabetes.

The symptoms usually include Proptosis (affected eye bulging), fever, and pain. Pus is usually discharged from the person’s nose. The divider between septum (nostrils), sinuses, facial bones, surrounding the eye socket, or palate (mouth roof) can be destroyed. Brain infection can result in convulsions, partial paralysis, and inability to speak properly.

A doctor diagnoses Mucormycosis by noting the patient’s symptoms and conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or impaired immune system. An individual, who has Mucormycosis, usually is treated with antibiotic Amphotericin B, injected directly in the spinal fluid or intravenously. Infected tissues can be surgically removed. If the individual also has diabetes, glucose (blood sugar) levels must be kept under control.

This entry was filed under Diseases and Conditions.

Tags: blood sugar levels, brain infection, doctor diagnoses, fungus, pus, southeast asia, uncontrolled diabetes