The clinical pattern of orbital mucormycosis in a tertiary eye care hospital

Abstract

This study aimed to report the clinical profile of patients with rhino-orbital mucormycosis at a tertiary eye care center in Tamil Nadu. This was a single-center, retrospective case series of patients who were diagnosed as rhino-orbital mucormycosis between January and December 2018. The study included nine patients of rhino-orbital mucormycosis with a mean age of 53.33 ± 8.3 years (range: 35–61 years), comprising five males and four females. All the cases were unilateral in presentation. Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus was the most common underlying predisposing factor. Four patients presented with proptosis, two patients complained of headache, and five patients had defective vision. Computed tomography scan showed pansinusitis in six patients. Total ophthalmoplegia was noted in four patients. All patients received parenteral therapy with amphotericin B. Rhino-orbital mucormycosis is a rare, life-threatening, and insidious fungal infection. Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus and immunosuppression are the most important risk factors. The orbital findings may range from orbital pain to ophthalmoplegia and blindness. We present this case series to emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of rhino-orbital mucormycosis.