Mucormycosis uncommon encounters: Pediatric and geriatric perspectives in a case report

Mucormycosis, an angioinvasive fungal infection, typically originates in the nose and paranasal sinuses following inhalation of fungal spores. It poses a potentially life-threatening risk, primarily caused by opportunistic, saprophytic aerobic fungi of the Zygomycetes subdivision and Mucorales order. Common risk factors associated with mucormycosis include uncontrolled diabetes, hematological disorders, immunosuppression, underlying systemic diseases, and symptoms associated with COVID-19. The infection presents various clinical manifestations, including rhino-orbit-cerebral, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and mucocutaneous symptoms. We observed two cases of mucormycosis precipitated by classical and atypical risk factors, affecting individuals of different age groups. Despite the differing presentations, a common underlying systemic cause i.e. diabetes ketoacidosis was evident. The diagnosis was confirmed through either histopathological examination or positive culture. Mucormycosis ranks as the third most common invasive fungal infection. Treatment entails rapid diagnosis, correction of risk factors, surgical resection or debridement, and appropriate antifungal therapy.