#black fungus in covid patients

[flyonthewallmedstudent]

Rhizopus & Mucor

Both belong under the umbrella term, mucorales. These are bread moulds naturally on fruit and bread that we breathe in and out without much issue particularly if immunocompetent, but in some immunocompromised it causes rapidly fatal and progressive disease: mucormycosis. Due to the weakened immune system.

Spores released either land on skin or into blood via open wounds, then deposit tehre, invading local vessels, thrombosing them and cutting off supply. this rapidly leads to ischaemia and necrosis. Dead tissue.

Now for a Case Report. This one in Frontiers of Medicine. A 35 yo man with diabetes presents with a facial rash, that rapidly progresses to an eschar and ulcer. To note, there are graphic images in the link of his face.

This was initially associated with nasal discharge and epistaxis. Diagnosis was initially a peridontal infection which did not resolve with standard antibiotics for this, similarly he was next diagnosed with uncomplicated, stock standard cellulitis (usually staph or strep pyogenes caused). Both treatments failed.

eventually he was diagnosed with mucormycosis, but by then he had extensive damage to his face, the subcut tissues, muscles and facial bones. He also had significant weight loss, fevers, splenomegaly and thrombosis.

To muddy the waters, he was concurrently diagnosed with a T cell lymphoma but the authors also picked up Rhizopus.

What is Rhizopus? (also related to mucor, another mucorales) It's a fungi, more specifically an opportunistic pathogen commonly associated with diabetics (esp poorly controlled) and the immunocompromised (in particular solid organ transplants, see further case report in resources below, HIV, malnutrition, haematological malignancies - eg leukaemias).

Also associated with steroid use, form of immunosuppression so has been seen in severe COVID patients requiring dexamethasone (Rare though).

As a mould it likes the acidotic states in DKA and iron, so any iron overload states as well.

Why poorly controlled diabetics - it becomes an immunocormposed state in and of itself. The sugars suppress local inflammatory responses like neutrophil chemotaxis or phagocytosis etc. You can however, get chronic forms too. So don't rule it out if it's not wildly acute. These occur over weeks, slowly. Considering it's a mould, it's particularly "prolific" in hot weather and warm/hot climates.

Classically it is an infection that affects the face, parasinuses, nose and even the brain. You'll often hear the term rhinocerebral with it.

Consider it if you see discolouration around the face and definitely if you see a necrotic eschar. Actually, any black spots, fevers, rash, call ID urgently. Unsurprisingly, it is also called the black fungus.

Is also possible to have it affect the skin (particularly in IVDU and in burns), lungs and GI (more rare). IN lung involvement symptoms are typical for the organ - SOB, fevers, chest pain, haemoptysis. in GI: nausea/vomiting/GIB.

Thrombosis can occur as a complication as it invades the blood vessels.

In brain involvement from disseminated disease, expect confusion and altered state if not reduced GCS.

It's also been recently featured in the fungi podcast by the Curbsiders. Which is worth a listen.

It's filamentous and has hyphae.

You'll also hear the term mucormycosis = which just refers to the disease process that is rapidly fatal. Mortality is 30-70% of rhinocerebral cases, 90% in disseminated and 100% in AIDs --numbers from StatPearls. Survival improves with antifungals and surgery to 70%.

Early diagnosis and intervention is essential, as illustrated in the case report above. but is rare, so not infrequently missed.

It's also missed, as early symptoms are very non specific depending on how it affects the host. You can simply get lethargy, headache and eye pain. Blurry vision too, or simply epistaxis and rhinorrhoea.

Image from Wiki

Now that you know the clinical presentation and the increased risk groups to think of this diagnosis in,

How do you confirm your suspicions?

investigations:

It's associated with neutropaenic states and one hypothesis is acidosis in diabetics with poorly managed sugars (so really unwell). No serology (as compared to other bugs), would come up in fungal cultures and on tissue biopsy. key words on biopsy: Ribbon like hyphae branching at 90 degree angles.

Also from wiki, that suggests it looks like Moose antlers.

Pathologists will also note or look for necrosis and haemorrhage.

Blood cultures rarely pick up it, so consider it if they're unwell and culture negative.

On imaging - gold standard in rhino cerebral is MRI but CT is most accessible and fast. Looking for signs of blood vessel invasion and reverse halo or less specific halo sign.

Reverse halo per radiopaedia: ground glass within a consolidated crescent shape.

From radiopaedia:

Okay, this sounds both difficult to pick up and investigate. No magical PCR or serology.

Pro tip from stat pearls: just maintain a high index of suspicion in anyone with increased risk or risk factors. Biopsy tissue quickly particularly if necrosis is apparent. Early detection method is unsurprisngly CT --> we all seem to have a low threshold for this, but looking for hyperdensity (mucosal thickening) and erosion of the facial bones.

Also essential is the age old adage that most clinicians follow --> empirical therapy for the most common organisms, close monitoring/observations. then failing that, broaden the differentials and keep investigating or altering treatment quickly.

Treatment:

The strong stuff. Liposomal Amphotericin B for 4-6 weeks (the long duration) as it is highly invasive/progressive. Alternatives; itraconazole.

You may also hear of hyperbaric O2 therapy, which aids the neutrophils to kill the fungi. Also in stat pearls

Surgical debridement after antifungal therapy with washout depending on extent of damage.

Sources used for post:

Case reports, wiki and radiopaedia as above And largely Statpearls --> there is much more further detail and more to read on differentials and complications.

I'll try to use free resources as much as possible.

Another Case Reports of interest include: NEJM - lengthy one reminding all to consider this diagnosis in an unexplained rash in an immunocompromised host.

#infectious diseases #mucorales #mucor #rhizopus #mucormycosis #medblr

[miraridoctor]

Mucormycosis, also known as black fungus, is a rare but serious fungal infection that has recently emerged as a post-COVID complication in some patients. Proper mucormycosis treatment is crucial given its high mortality rates and the limited timeline... #Mirari #MirariDoctor #MirariColdPlasma #ColdPlasma

[harmeet-saggi]

[pscottm]

Why Deadly 'Black Fungus' Is Ravaging COVID Patients in India - Scientific American

[retinaspecialityhospital]

Retina Speciality Hospital in Cataract Types and Treatment

Introduction

When it comes to general surgery, choosing the right hospital is crucial for ensuring a successful and safe procedure. In Indore, a city known for its medical excellence, several hospitals offer general surgery services. However, finding the best hospital that meets your specific needs can be a daunting task. In this blog, we will explore the factors to consider when choosing a hospital for general surgery in Indore and shed light on why Retina Speciality Hospital stands out as a top choice.

1. The Importance of Specialization

General surgery encompasses a wide range of procedures, from hernia repairs to gallbladder removals. To ensure you receive the best care, it's essential to choose a hospital that specializes in the type of surgery you require. Retina Speciality Hospital in Indore is renowned for its expertise in eye-related surgeries, including retina treatments, cataract surgeries, and more. 

2. Types of Cataract Surgeries

If you're seeking cataract surgery, it's crucial to understand the different types available. Retina Speciality Hospital offers a variety of cataract surgery options, including traditional phacoemulsification and advanced femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery. Their team of skilled surgeons will guide you in choosing the most suitable procedure based on your eye health and individual needs.

3. The My Hospital Indore Experience

When patients search for the best hospital in Indore, they often seek a facility that prioritizes patient comfort and satisfaction. Retina Speciality Hospital prides itself on providing a 'my hospital' experience. From the moment you step in, you'll be greeted by a warm and caring staff that places your well-being at the forefront.

4. NABH Accreditation: A Mark of Quality

National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH) accreditation is a significant indicator of a hospital's commitment to quality healthcare. Retina Speciality Hospital is proud to be NABH accredited, ensuring that they adhere to the highest standards of patient care and safety.

5. Cutting-Edge Diagnostic Tools

When it comes to eye-related surgeries, accurate diagnostics are paramount. Retina Speciality Hospital offers state-of-the-art diagnostic services, including Fundus Fluorescein Angiography (FFA) eye tests. This procedure helps in diagnosing and monitoring various eye conditions, including diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration.

6. A Multidisciplinary Approach

Choosing a super-speciality hospital in Indore for general surgery ensures that you have access to a multidisciplinary team of experts. Retina Speciality Hospital brings together a group of skilled eye specialists in Indore who collaborate to provide comprehensive care for your eye health.

7. Extensive Indore Hospital List Comparison

Before making your decision, it's wise to compare your options. Conducting an extensive Indore hospital list comparison can help you make an informed choice. Retina Speciality Hospital consistently ranks among the top hospitals in Indore for eye surgeries and general surgery, making it a compelling choice for patients seeking quality healthcare.

8. Eye Angiogram and Black Fungus Eye Treatment

In addition to cataract surgeries, Retina Speciality Hospital offers specialized treatments such as eye angiograms. This diagnostic procedure is essential for identifying and managing various eye conditions. Furthermore, the hospital has been at the forefront of treating black fungus eye infections, a critical concern during the COVID-19 pandemic.

9. Prioritizing Eye Health

Preserving optimal eye health is fundamental for overall wellness. Along with providing exceptional surgical services, Retina Speciality Hospital offers valuable eye health tips to help you preserve your vision and prevent common eye conditions.

Conclusion

When it comes to general surgery, especially eye-related procedures, Retina Speciality Hospital in Indore emerges as a top choice. Their specialization in retina treatments, a variety of cataract surgery options, NABH accreditation, and commitment to patient comfort make them a standout among Indore hospitals. With cutting-edge diagnostic tools like FFA eye tests and a multidisciplinary approach, they offer comprehensive care for your eye health.

In your quest for the best hospital in Indore for general surgery, make an informed decision by considering all these factors. Retina Speciality Hospital's dedication to quality healthcare, coupled with their expertise and advanced treatments, makes them a reliable destination for those seeking exceptional medical services in Indore. Your vision and well-being are in safe hands at Retina Speciality Hospital.

[thesheel]

The need to curtail the coronavirus has reached the power corridors, where the urgency is to take extraordinary measures now by putting profit ambitions aside. One such measure is the COVID vaccine patent waiver so that the most disadvantaged population of the world can be inoculated at a rapid pace. As the United States uplifts its game of vaccine diplomacy, the Biden administration is in favor of a patent waiver to help the needy people immediately. The talks of this waiver initiated on the demands of South Africa and India,  but it has gained widespread attention from the global power circles, including the White House. While the European Commission negates the demand, its approval from the European parliament has given it widespread support from countries across the globe. Now as the world seeks global herd immunity, what are the pros and cons of the COVID vaccine patent waiver? Let’s see. COVID Vaccine Patent Waiver: An Absolute Necessity to Expand the Vaccination Base Horizontally Intellectual property protection is codified in trade-related aspects of the World Trade Organization and was used to restrict developing countries from manufacturing their domestic COVID-19 vaccines and exporting them to other countries. This pursuit of profit at the expense of humanitarianism is costing people their lives and delaying the world from achieving immunity.  With the suspension of this protection, countries around the globe will be able to manufacture and distribute their domestic vaccines. The US government has proposed a temporary suspension of intellectual property protection, which has also attracted support from some other countries. Still, it could not be suspended until all members of the World Trade Organization agree to do so. If this patent waiver happens, the vaccine heavyweights like Pfizer and Moderna will have to grant access to their Intellectual Property (IP) under the patent waiver so that small manufacturers could also allocate resources for the manufacturing of vaccines. Hence the waiver aims to expand the vaccine production facilities horizontally instead of putting too much burden on the existing manufacturers. The issue of vaccine apartheid also demands an immediate waiver as most African people won’t be able to get inoculated otherwise. This is one of the reasons why South Africa has raised its voice for the patent waiver.  While the vaccination process is in full flow in the western nations, third world countries are still struggling to touch double-digits in the vaccination process.  The only intent of the COVID vaccine patent waiver is to enable vulnerable countries to make and distribute vaccines. Despite an UN-led alliance, COVAX, many countries cannot procure the required capacity of vaccines, resulting in an unvaccinated population. This phenomenon is threatening the countries with large populations to have another outbreak of COVID. For instance, as India started coming out of the current mess, the fear is still high that another layer can grasp the country if the vaccination process is not catalyzed.  So, the COVID vaccine patent waiver would help the countries develop the vaccines without bearing the enormous manufacturing costs. The dangerous outbreak in most countries is introducing new variants of the coronavirus. As the virus contacts more and more bodies, the chances of mutation increase manifold.  So, a COVID vaccine patient waiver will help to curtail this mutation as well. These mutations are so dangerous that the Black fungus cases of the Indian variant are increasing and tend to bring the world to constraints once again. A COVID vaccine patent waiver is also vital to inoculate the vaccine-hesitant people as much as possible. With time, the conspiracy theories are increasing regarding the vaccine, stopping many people from getting vaccinated. Similarly, the countries like Tanzania, where the pro-vaccination government has just been installed, the vaccination rates are drastically low.

These countries demand urgent attention, which is not possible without a patent waiver. Cons of Vaccine Patent Waiver: Low-Quality Vaccine Makes Stakeholders Worried The primary concern for vaccine patent waiver remains the quality of the vaccine. The World Health Organization has specific standards to accept the vaccine, without which it cannot be considered safe. The vaccine patent waiver will help everyone manufacture their vaccine version, hence compromising the quality. This will risk the lives of the people and alienate many people to run away from vaccines. The pro-conspiracy groups will get the advantage to spread rumors regarding the efficacy of the vaccines.  Similarly, just to increase their say in vaccine diplomacy, many countries can come face to face in producing more vaccines to get the upper hand against their regional or global rivals. If the vaccine patent waiver is not used wisely, it can help spread new variants in the world.  The global division can also rise as countries can impose travel restrictions for people not vaccinated from their desired brand.   Final Thoughts The inclination of the Biden administration and the Director-General of the World Trade Organization toward patent waivers is an encouraging sign, which can also force other countries to follow the route. However, this waiver must be followed strictly, as its overuse is also dangerous to the world.  Meanwhile, countries across the globe should also try to have their hands on other innovative projects in parallel, including vaccine lottery and vaccine passports that will encourage people to receive their injections.

[mittaldentalclinic]

Zygomatic dental implant treatment for new jaw and teeth after post covid black fungus surgery of upper jaw at Mittal Dental Clinic, Jaipur, India.

Zygomatic dental implants can be used to give fixed new , artificial jaw and teeth to those patients who have unfortunately lost their upper jaw and teeth after black fungus ( mucormycosis) surgery of upper jaw.

Mittal dental clinic, Jaipur, India specializes in rehabilitating patients after Post covid Mucormycosis surgery of jaw with zyagomatic implant in india supported fixed artificial jaw and teeth.

Here is a case report of a poor patient who lost her right side of upper jaw and teeth after post covid mucormycosis ( black fungus) operation. Her jaw was replaced with beautiful fixed prosthesis on Zygomatic implants at Mittal Dental Clinic, Jaipur

Tips for Finding the Best Emergency Dental Clinic in Jaipur

A dental emergency can strike anytime, but when it does strike, it’s always better to see a specialist. The best way to find the best dental clinic in Jaipur is by asking for recommendations from people you know.

It’s not easy to choose the right dentist. Many of us are wary of dentists because of past experiences – either they couldn’t get us numb enough or they told us that we needed many more procedures than what we had anticipated or they caused immense pain by drilling into our teeth.

For More Info: Painless tooth extraction

Dental implant treatment

[shubhi01]

Mucormycosis (Black Fungus) And COVID 19.

Catastrophic second wave of COVID 19 has left millions of people infected and dead. India is experiencing the world’s worst outbreak with not only rising COVID cases but also an alarming upsurge in a rare and potentially life-threatening fungal infection, Mucormycosis.

What is Mucormycosis?

According to CDC, Mucormycosis (black fungus) is a serious and rare fungal infection caused by a group of molds called mucormycetes. These fungi live in the environment, particularly in soil and in decaying organic matter, such as fruits, vegetables, leaves, compost piles, or rotten wood.People can contract mucormycosis by coming in contact with the fungal spores in the environment. For example, by inhalation of spores, by swallowing spores. Additionally, mucormycosisis likely to develop on the skin when fungus enters the skin via scrape, cut, burn, or any other type of skin trauma or injury.

How is mucormycosis related to COVID 19?

This rare fungal infection usually affects people who suffer from long-term health issues and/or take medications that lower immunity. Mucormyosis can be life-threatening in diabetics and immunocompromised individuals, such as recipients of organ or stem transplants, long-term usage of steroids, post-surgery, and cancer.

When diabetes is poorly controlled, and blood sugar is high the tissues become relatively acidic, it creates a suitable condition for Mucorales fungi to grow. This has been identified as a risk factor for mucormycosis in India.  People with diabetes and obesity are expected to develop more severe Covid-19 infections. This means they’re more likely to receive corticosteroids, which are frequently used to treat Covid-19. But corticosteroids together with diabetes increase the risk of mucormycosis. Meanwhile, coronavirus can damage airway tissue and blood vessels, which could also increase susceptibility to fungal infection.

Moreover, damaged lungs and suppressed immune system as seen in the case of COVID-positive patients make sinuses and nose the most common site of mucormycosis manifestation. From there it can spread to the eyes, leading to blindness, or the brain, causing headaches, seizures, stroke, and even death in certain cases. A recent study showed 94% of people infected with mucormycosis had diabetes and poorly controlled diabetes in 67% people.

Furthermore, long-term ventilation reduces immunity and there are speculations of the fungus being transmitted by the humidifier water being given along with oxygen.

Is it contagious?

No, it’s not. It does not spread from one person to another.

Image: Twitter/@drharshvardhan

What are the symptoms?

You must visit your doctor if you experience the following symptoms;

Cough

Shortness of breath

fever

headache

nasal congestion, discharge.

sinus pain

blackened skin tissue

blisters

redness and swelling

ulcers

one side facial pain

loosening of teeth

blackish discoloration over the bridge of the nose

How is mucormycosis treated?

This includes antifungal medication, controlling blood sugar, urgent removal of dead tissue.

The outcome is poor in many patients affected with mucormyosis. Nearly half of the patients affected will die and many will sustain permanent damage to their health.

Can we prevent mucormycosis?

Yes, mucormycosis can be prevented. Vaccination can help, it will protect from infection, which in turn will protect immunity. A strong immunity system can keep mucrmycosis at bay. Awareness must be created regarding fungal infections,  diagnose them early, along with a focus on controlling diabetes and using corticosteroids wisely.

Dr. Rahul Sawant is one of the Best Cardiologist in Pune. He is Interventional Cardiologist, MBBS, MD (Med) Pune, MRCP London, CCT Cardiology Cambridge UK. He is Director of Hridaymitra Cardia Clinic, Pune. Hridaymitra Cardia Clinic of excellence in Pune for heart care and you will discover well trained, and topmost best cardiologist in Pune.

#BestCardiologistinPune #cardiologistinpune

[mimic-octopus98]

Black Fungus; Definition, Symptoms and Causes

Black Fungus or Mucormycosis is a disease that is caused by a Fungus called Mucormycetes. This fungus is commonly found in our environment. Although the incidence of this disease is not new, it is a challenge that the Fungus attack is common to COVID-19 Patients. And it is a serious fungal infection that can affect our eyesight and even the brain. Symptoms According to the United States Center…

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#Black fungus #Mucormycosis

[harpianews]

In rare case, doctors remove 145 worms, 'dead eye' from 65-year-old's nose

In rare case, doctors remove 145 worms, ‘dead eye’ from 65-year-old’s nose

In a rare surgery, 145 worms were removed from the eyes and nose of a 65-year-old man Patient, who was treated mucositis (black fungus) and covid-19 about a year ago. According to a statement by SS Sparsh Hospital in Rajarajeshwari Nagar, Bengaluru, surgery was also performed to remove dead tissue from the patient’s nose, resulting in a wide nasal cavity on the left side. “Especially, wide…

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[mediblog21]

Don't link Mucormycosis / Black Fungus and Industrial Oxygen

We have logically two strong points to strengthen our argument. Speculations are going around that the rise in black fungus / mucormycosis in post-COVID-19 patients could be related to oxygen. Let it be the oxygen used traditionally in hospitals or industrial oxygen; we believe neither could be the cause.

1. Pure oxygen is toxic - black fungus cannot grow in industrial oxygen or oxygen cylinders

Neither fungi nor bacteria can live in 100% oxygen, and even a human being cannot breathe pure oxygen for more than one or two hours. Likewise, there is no way a tiny fungus, mucor, or black fungus can live in dirty oxygen pipes or oxygen cylinders, or industrial oxygen. Mucor will not grow in oxygen cylinders. Let it be medical oxygen or industrial oxygen.

2. Sporangia cannot grow in water

One more theory revolving around oxygen is that fungus spreads due to unhygienic water used in oxygen flow meters. The fungus can grow in water in the form of mycelia only, and Mycelia is like a plant without flowering. When fungus grows in water or any liquid, it cannot germinate and form sporangia. The fungus cannot release its seeds without sporangia, and Sporangia can grow only on solid substances. So even if the water used in flow meters is unhygienic and has mucor growing in it, it cannot cause mucormycosis infection.

Black fungus industrial oxygen - We breathe mucor daily, and we do not need unhygienic oxygen cylinders or dirty water inflow meters to get exposed to it. It attacks us only when our immunity is down. Unfortunately, COVID-19 is bringing down our immunity and is increasing the risk. The black fungus has been seen in patients who have hardly taken any medication and got self-healed. This gives us even more reason to start the medication ASAP and avoid health deterioration.

Mucormycosis or black fungus occurs only when immunity is low

Similar myths involve steroids used for COVID-19 treatment. Steroids can lower immunity only when taken for a long time.  For COVID-19, the steroids are given for a short time and will not impact immunity. So, steroids that are offered for COVID-19 cannot be the reason.

#Black fungus industrial oxygen

[cmvarma]

Best Area Dental | Top 10 Dental Clinics In Hyderabad

Housewife and senior Janaki G.S. has been anxiously waiting for lockdown restrictions to be eased. Her dentures broke more than two weeks ago and since the dentist closed, there has been no way to fix it. "I spent two dental hospital near me harrowing weeks eating soft foods like idli and ragi mudde, except for fluids. The first thing I did on Monday was go to the dentist," she said.

The hospital resumed elective procedures and medical exams on Monday after more than two months as COVID-19 cases fell and restrictions eased. Dentists, ophthalmologists, orthopaedic surgeons and other specialists report too many patients and long appointment times.

Dr Rajashekhar, president of the Karnataka State Eye Society, said there were long queues for patients waiting to be treated for cataracts, diabetic retinopathy and other problems. With a third wave of COVID-19 expected in two months, best dental places near me patients want their eyes checked and elective surgery within the next eight weeks. “Because eye infection is one of the symptoms of black fungus, in addition to that, some patients have developed eye problems after COVID-19, and many patients who have recovered from COVID-19 are being tested. Have been participating online for several months students in the course to have their eyes checked," he said.

It is difficult to make an appointment with the dentist. Many dentists consult and manage patients online, but all physical procedures have to wait during the lockdown.

"There is a large number of patients who need root canals, extractions and other procedures but have to wait until Monday. Now we are scheduling appointments based on the severity of each case," said Dr Sudarshan Sajjan, secretary of the Indian Dental Association, Bangalore. He also reported several cases of black fungus diagnosed in dental clinics. "I diagnosed two cases from my patients on Monday. Back fungus affects the jaw and gums, and many people think it's a dental problem," he said.

However, walk-in patients in outpatient departments (OPDs) in government and private hospitals have only increased slightly, but that is expected to change by the end of the week.

B.R. Mohan, Resident Medical Officer, K.C. Bangalore General Hospital said the number of OPD patients at the hospital has increased by more than 10% in the past two days alone.

Prasanna, president of Dr. H.S. Private Hospitals and Nursing Homes Association (PHANA), said ordinary patients have begun seeking follow-up appointments with their doctors. It will take nearly a week to get back to normal. “The government has not released all the beds that were taken over during the peak of the second wave of COVID-19. As far as I know, they have been referring patients to general beds for two weeks, and they have been referring anyone to ICU beds for at least two days. except Mysore, where cases are still high. We will write to the health minister to free up our beds so we can serve other patients. If cases increase again, the government can take back the beds,” he said. - best dental clinic near me

#best dental clinic hyderabad #best dental clinic near me #fms dental #best area dental #best dental place #best dental places near me #dental hospital near me #top 10 dental clinics in hyderabad

[miraridoctor]

The recent uptick in cases of the rare but deadly fungal infection, mucormycosis, in COVID-19 patients has shone a spotlight on the need for better prevention and treatment options. Mucormycosis, also known as black fungus, can lead to serious illnes... #Mirari #MirariDoctor #MirariColdPlasma #ColdPlasma

[riyab12]

Mucormycosis (Black Fungus) And COVID 19.

Catastrophic second wave of COVID 19 has left millions of people infected and dead. India is experiencing the world’s worst outbreak with not only rising COVID cases but also an alarming upsurge in a rare and potentially life-threatening fungal infection, Mucormycosis.

What is Mucormycosis ?

According to CDC, Mucormycosis (black fungus) is a serious and rare fungal infection caused by a group of molds called mucormycetes. These fungi live in the environment, particularly in soil and in decaying organic matter, such as fruits, vegetables, leaves, compost piles, or rotten wood. People can contract mucormycosis by coming in contact with the fungal spores in the environment. For example, by inhalation of spores, by swallowing spores. Additionally, mucormycosisis likely to develop on the skin when fungus enters the skin via scrape, cut, burn, or any other type of skin trauma or injury.

How is mucormycosis related to COVID 19 ?

This rare fungal infection usually affects people who suffer from long-term health issues and/or take medications that lower immunity. Mucormyosis can be life-threatening in diabetics and immunocompromised individuals, such as recipients of organ or stem transplants, long-term usage of steroids, post-surgery, cancer.

When diabetes is poorly controlled, and blood sugar is high the tissues become relatively acidic, it creates a suitable condition for Mucorales fungi to grow. This has been identified as a risk factor for mucormycosis in India.  People with diabetes and obesity are expected to develop more severe Covid-19 infections. This means they’re more likely to receive corticosteroids, which are frequently used to treat Covid-19. But corticosteroids together with diabetes increase the risk of mucormycosis. Meanwhile, coronavirus can damage airway tissue and blood vessels, which could also increase susceptibility to fungal infection.

Moreover, damaged lungs and suppressed immune system as seen in the case of COVID-positive patients make sinuses and nose the most common site of mucormycosis manifestation. From there it can spread to the eyes, leading to blindness, or the brain, causing headaches, seizures, stroke, and even death in certain cases. A recent study showed 94% of people infected with mucormycosis had diabetes and poorly controlled diabetes in 67% people.

Furthermore, long-term ventilation reduces immunity and there are speculations of the fungus being transmitted by the humidifier water being given along with oxygen.

Note - Dr. Rahul Sawant is one of the Best Cardiologist in Pune. He is Interventional Cardiologist, MBBS, MD (Med) Pune, MRCP London, CCT Cardiology Cambridge UK. He is Director of Hridaymitra Cardia Clinic, Pune. He has rich experience with cardiology procedures and has performed around in excess of 5000 angiographies and in excess of 3,000 angioplasties.

Is it contagious ?

No, it’s not. It does not spread from one person to another.

What are the symptoms ? 

You must visit your doctor if you experience the following symptoms; Cough Shortness of breath fever headache nasal congestion, discharge. sinus pain blackened skin tissue blisters redness and swelling ulcers one side facial pain loosening of teeth blackish discoloration over the bridge of the nose 

How is mucormycosis treated ?

This includes antifungal medication, controlling blood sugar, urgent removal of dead tissue. The outcome is poor in many patients affected with mucormyosis. Nearly half of the patients affected will die and many will sustain permanent damage to their health. 

Can we prevent mucormycosis ? 

Yes, mucormycosis can be prevented. Vaccination can help, it will protect from infection, which in turn will protect immunity. A strong immunity system can keep mucrmycosis at bay. Awareness must be created regarding fungal infections,  diagnose them early, along with a focus on controlling diabetes and using corticosteroids wisely.

#bestcardiologistinpune #cardiologistinpune #interventionalcardiologistinpune #cardiacclinicinpune #heartclinicinpune

[eyesolutions]

#best cataract lens

[theliveusa]

Patients within 6 weeks of COVID treatment are at highest risk of black fungus: Expert

Patients within 6 weeks of COVID treatment are at highest risk of black fungus: Expert

By Shalini Bhardwaj | Updated: May 22, 2021 17:32 IST New Delhi [India], May 22 (ANI): Patients within six weeks of COVID treatment are at the highest risk of black fungus, said senior neurosurgeon at AIIMS. Speaking to ANI, Professor of Neurosurgery at AIIMS, Dr P Sarat Chandra said, “One of the most important reasons is uncontrolled diabetes, systemic use of steroids along with tocilizumab,…

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