Mucormycosis of facial region: a fatal outcome of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (Case Report)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15218/edj.2026.13Keywords:
Diabetes Mellitus, Diabetic ketoacidosis, Mucormycosis, Oro-Facial GangreneAbstract
Mucormycosis is a rare but severe fungal infection caused by fungi in the order Mucorales, typically affecting immunocompromised individuals. This opportunistic infection often presents in patients with uncontrolled diabetes, hematologic malignancies, or those on immunosuppressive therapy. The most common form of mucormycosis is rhino-orbital-cerebral, which can lead to facial gangrene, a life-threatening condition characterized by tissue necrosis due to impaired blood flow. The pathogenesis of mucormycosis involves the inhalation of fungal spores that invade blood vessels, leading to ischemia, thrombosis, and necrosis. Early diagnosis and prompt intervention, including antifungal treatment and surgical debridement, are crucial in improving survival rates. However, the high mortality associated with facial gangrene due to mucormycosis underscores the need for timely management and a multidisciplinary approach. This review explores the clinical features, diagnostic methods, therapeutic strategies, and outcomes of mucormycosis-associated facial gangrene, highlighting the importance of early recognition and aggressive treatment in preventing catastrophic consequences.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Wirya Kamal Sadeq, Shaheen Ali Ahmed, Khurshid A. Kheder Khrwatany (Author)
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