Open AccessSurgical Wound Mucormycosis Necessitating Hand Amputation: A Case Report
Author(s) -
Heng Hai Chew,
Al Waleed M. Abuzeid,
Dishan Singh,
C C Tai
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
journal of orthopaedic surgery
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.457
H-Index - 40
eISSN - 2309-4990
pISSN - 1022-5536
DOI - 10.1177/230949900801600230
Subject(s) - medicine , mucormycosis , amputation , antifungal , surgery , intervention (counseling) , limb amputation , intensive care medicine , dermatology , psychiatry
We report an unusual case of cutaneous mucormycosis in a 17-year-old man who had no risk factors for fungal infection. The aggressive nature of cutaneous mucormycosis is illustrated. A high index of suspicion is crucial for identifying and preventing progression of this disease, which can lead to limb amputation, even death. Extra vigilance should be given to those who are immunocompromised, including those receiving short courses of steroids. Early recognition, prompt surgical intervention and initiation of an appropriate antifungal treatment are crucial in the management of this rare but potentially limb- and life-threatening infection.