Mucormycosis, ominously nicknamed “black fungus,” is a rare but serious and aggressive fungal infection. It is caused by a group of molds called mucormycetes, which live in soil and decaying organic matter. While these fungi are everywhere, they only cause severe infection in people with severely compromised immune systems. It gained global attention due to a surge of cases in India among COVID-19 patients, who had both virus-induced immune damage and were treated with steroids (which further suppress immunity).
Risk Factors
– Uncontrolled Diabetes (especially diabetic ketoacidosis): This is the 1 risk factor. The acidic, high-sugar environment allows the fungus to thrive.
– Immunosuppression: From medications (steroids, chemotherapy, after organ transplant) or conditions (cancer, HIV/AIDS).
– Severe COVID-19 infection (due to a combination of factors).
Symptoms (Sinus and Brain form is most common)
– Nasal or sinus congestion and pain
– Facial swelling, often on one side
– Fever and headache
– Black, necrotic (dead) lesions on the skin, especially on the bridge of the nose or the hard palate (roof of the mouth)—this is the “black fungus” sign.
Treatment & Prevention
– Control blood sugar levels rigorously, especially for diabetics.
– Use steroids judiciously and under medical supervision.
– Treatment is an emergency: It requires aggressive intravenous antifungal medication (amphotericin B) and immediate surgical debridement (cutting out all the infected, dead tissue) to stop the spread.
Author: Afreen Sultana
