Mucormycosis in a Covid-19 pandemic: Insight into the phoenix - A cross-sectional study

Background: Mucormycosis is a potentially lethal fungal infection, and the risk of secondary infections is more in patients with COVID-19. This may be because of pre-existing comorbidities or the immunosuppressive treatment taken during the COVID-19 infection. Early diagnosis is of utmost importance for patient survival. Aims and Objectives: This study was designed to grade the patients of rhino-orbital-maxillary mucormycosis in post-COVID-19 patients in a structured way based on the symptoms and clinical and radiographic findings and to find a correlation with various predisposing factors. Materials and Methods: A total of 102 patients with confirmed rhino-orbital-maxillary mucormycosis and a history of COVID-19 recovery, who understand the protocol and can give informed consent, were included in the study. Results: In the present study, 73.5% were found to be males and 26.5% were found to be females. The 31-40 age group was more affected among males, and the 41-50 age group was among females. The most common associated comorbidity was found to be uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. Out of 102 patients, 53.9% patients reported being in grade II, followed by 33.3% in grade III, and 12.7% in grade I. Conclusion: The grading system of rhino-orbital-maxillary mucormycosis was found to be significant; hence, it can be used for the early diagnosis and prevention of severe consequences.