Causes and risk factors
As the name suggests, zygomycosis is caused due to various fungi belonging to the group of zygomycetes. Among this, the Mucorales is the class which causes various infection in human beings. This organism is commonly seen on decaying organic matters. They release a large number of spores as they grow and lead to infection. However, not all individuals exposed to these spores develop the infection. This infection is more commonly seen in people with low immunity. Hence HIV patients are more easily affected by such infections. Poorly controlled diabetes, burns which cause decrease in immunity along with patients taking corticosteroids are more prone for developing this infection.
Clinical presentation:
This infection manifests as a spectrum of diseases. Depending upon the route of entry and the risk factors, the affected individual can present with complaints. This infection commonly manifests itself in various forms, particularly the digestive system and respiratory systems are more commonly affected. In respiratory affection, also termed as pulmonary mucormycosis, the patient presents with complaints of pain in the chest, cough, and fever along with difficulty in breathing. Coarse rattling sounds are heard on auscultation. Ingestion of contaminated food can cause complaints of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and pain in the abdomen. The abdomen is tender on palpation. It can also lead to ischemia, gangrenous condition of the stomach, or even ulcerations and renal failure. This condition is termed as gastrointestinal mucormycosis. In cutaneous mucormycosis, various skin lesions ranging from simple indurations to ulcerations are seen. The infection can spread to different parts of the body ranging from eyes, blood, to brain. The spread of infection from lungs to central nervous system through blood is seen in disseminated mucormycosis.
Investigations:
Taking into consideration the complaints narrated by the patient, the examination is carried out. Cultures of discharges, lung tissue, and skin tissue biopsy along with fungal stains help in confirming the infection. Often either during surgery or during postpartum examination the gastric infection is diagnosed. If needed, a brain biopsy along with CSF culture can be suggested.
Treatment:
The treatment aims at administration of antifungal medications. They are either given orally or as topical ointments.
Other Modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up with the disease. Taking into consideration the symptoms in a holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivates can also be beneficial in combating the complaints.
