Enfermedades infecciosas clínicas: acceso abierto

Invasive Mucormycosis: Unraveling the Pathogenesis and Novel Treatment Approaches

Abstract

Maillard Alexis

Mucormycosis, also known as zygomycosis, is a serious and potentially life-threatening fungal infection caused by a group of fungi called mucormycetes. These fungi are commonly found in the environment, such as soil, decaying organic matter and even in the nasal passages of healthy individuals. Mucormycosis primarily affects individuals with weakened immune systems, including those with uncontrolled diabetes, cancer patients, transplant recipients and individuals taking immunosuppressive medications. The infection can occur through different routes, including inhalation of fungal spores, direct inoculation into wounds or surgical sites, or ingestion of contaminated food. Once the spores enter the body, they can invade blood vessels, leading to tissue necrosis and potential dissemination to other organs. Mucormycosis can manifest in various forms, depending on the site of infection, including rhinocerebral (nose and brain), pulmonary (lungs), cutaneous (skin), gastrointestinal and disseminated mucormycosis.