COVID-associated mucormycosis: a multidisciplinary team approach

Background COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM) emerged as a serious complication during the pandemic, particularly in patients with diabetes mellitus and those exposed to corticosteroids during COVID-19 treatment. Its aggressive course and associated morbidity highlight the need for early recognition and effective management strategies. Methods This retrospective observational study included 63 patients diagnosed with COVID-19-associated mucormycosis. Clinical data, including demographics, risk factors, timing of onset, disease staging, imaging findings, treatment modalities, outcomes, and effectiveness of the multidisciplinary approach, were analysed. Results The majority of patients were above 50 years of age, with a male predominance. The mean interval between COVID-19 infection and onset of mucormycosis was 5 weeks. Both diabetes mellitus ( p = 0.02) and corticosteroid use ( p < 0.001) were significantly associated with advanced-stage disease, with orbito-facial pain and headache (68.3%) being the most common presenting symptoms. Management decisions were based on disease extent; a total of 52% of patients underwent surgical intervention combined with antifungal therapy, while 48% were managed medically. Overall, 94% of patients achieved remission, with recurrence and mortality observed in 3% each. Conclusion COVID-19-associated mucormycosis remains a significant clinical challenge, particularly in patients with diabetes and corticosteroid exposure, with a possible synergistic effect. Early diagnosis through clinical suspicion, microbiological confirmation and radiological evaluation, along with a coordinated multidisciplinary approach and structured management strategies, may facilitate timely intervention and improve clinical outcomes.