The following is a summary of “Trends of rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis in COVID-19 patients: An observational study,” published in the December 2022 issue of Primary care by Singh, et al.

For a study, researchers sought to investigate the oral manifestations in COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM) patients admitted to a tertiary healthcare center. CAM is a rare but rapidly progressive fungal infection, with rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) being the most common presentation. 

The study included 54 hospitalized patients during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. All cases were confirmed by MRI and histopathology, and detailed history, clinical examination, and surgical exploration were conducted for all subjects.

The collected data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The results showed that most of the patients with oral manifestations of COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM) were in the age range of ≤50 years, which accounted for 56.7% (n = 17) of the patients. Among the patients, 56.7% were male and affected more than females, and most were from rural areas. The mean value of RBS [Mean ± standard deviation (SD)] was 304.60 ± 100.073. On intra-oral examination, 96.7% of the patients had a gingival and palatal abscess, 63.3% had tooth mobility, and palatal ulcer/perforation was observed in 56.7% of the patients.

The second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic created an alarming situation worldwide, and mucormycosis emerged as a sudden storm, creating an emergency situation for hospitals and dental practitioners. The study highlighted the importance of early evaluation of high-risk patients and identifying early signs and symptoms of CAM to reduce mortality. Dental practitioners played a crucial role in the early detection of CAM and timely referral to healthcare centers for effective management. Overall, the study underscored the need for increased awareness of CAM among healthcare professionals and the public.

Reference: journals.lww.com/jfmpc/Fulltext/2022/12000/Trends_of_rhino_orbito_cerebral_mucormycosis_in.54.aspx