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Morrissey CO, Kim HY, Garnham K, Dao A, Chakrabarti A, Perfect JR, Alastruey-Izquierdo A, Harrison TS, Bongomin F, Galas M, Siswanto S, Dagne DA, Roitberg F, Gigante V, Sati H, Alffenaar JW, Beardsley J. Mucorales: A systematic review to inform the World Health Organization priority list of fungal pathogens. Med Mycol 2024; 62:myad130. [PMID: 38935901 PMCID: PMC11210621 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myad130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
The World Health Organization, in response to the growing burden of fungal disease, established a process to develop a fungal priority pathogens list (FPPL). This systematic review aimed to evaluate the epidemiology and impact of invasive fungal disease due to Mucorales. PubMed and Web of Science were searched to identify studies published between January 1, 2011 and February 23, 2021. Studies reporting on mortality, inpatient care, complications and sequelae, antifungal susceptibility, risk factors, preventability, annual incidence, global distribution, and emergence during the study time frames were selected. Overall, 24 studies were included. Mortality rates of up to 80% were reported. Antifungal susceptibility varied across agents and species, with the minimum inhibitory concentrations lowest for amphotericin B and posaconazole. Diabetes mellitus was a common risk factor, detected in 65%-85% of patients with mucormycosis, particularly in those with rhino-orbital disease (86.9%). Break-through infection was detected in 13.6%-100% on azole or echinocandin antifungal prophylaxis. The reported prevalence rates were variable, with some studies reporting stable rates in the USA of 0.094-0.117/10 000 discharges between 2011 and 2014, whereas others reported an increase in Iran from 16.8% to 24% between 2011 and 2015. Carefully designed global surveillance studies, linking laboratory and clinical data, are required to develop clinical breakpoints to guide antifungal therapy and determine accurate estimates of complications and sequelae, annual incidence, trends, and global distribution. These data will provide robust estimates of disease burden to refine interventions and better inform future FPPL.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Orla Morrissey
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Health and Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hannah Yejin Kim
- Infectious Diseases Institute (Sydney ID), The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Pharmacy, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Katherine Garnham
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Gold Coast University Hospital, Southport, Queensland, Australia
| | - Aiken Dao
- Infectious Diseases Institute (Sydney ID), The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Sydney Medical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
- Orthopaedic Research and Biotechnology Unit, Children’s Hospital at Westmead, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - John R Perfect
- Division of Infectious Diseases and International Health, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ana Alastruey-Izquierdo
- Mycology Reference Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Majadahonda, Madrid, Spain
| | - Thomas S Harrison
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, and Clinical Academic Group in Infection and Immunity, St. George’s, University of London, and St. George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Felix Bongomin
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Gulu University, Gulu, Uganda
| | - Marcelo Galas
- Antimicrobial Resistance Special Program, Communicable Diseases and Environmental Determinants of Health, Pan American Health Organization, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Siswanto Siswanto
- World Health Organization, South-East Asia Region Office, New Delhi, India
| | - Daniel Argaw Dagne
- Department of Control of Neglected Tropical Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Felipe Roitberg
- Department of Noncommunicable Diseases, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Valeria Gigante
- AMR Division, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Hatim Sati
- AMR Division, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Jan-Willem Alffenaar
- Infectious Diseases Institute (Sydney ID), The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Pharmacy, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Pharmacy, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Justin Beardsley
- Infectious Diseases Institute (Sydney ID), The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Pharmacy, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, New South Wales, Australia
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Amaral LB, Carlesse F, Rossato L. Pediatric mucormycosis associated with COVID-19: A systematic review of clinical cases. ENFERMEDADES INFECCIOSAS Y MICROBIOLOGIA CLINICA (ENGLISH ED.) 2024; 42:321-326. [PMID: 38216422 DOI: 10.1016/j.eimce.2023.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
The occurrence of mucormycosis has been observed in individuals with COVID-19. However, there is limited information on the epidemiological factors, presentation, diagnostic certainty, and outcome of this infection in children. PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, LitCovid, and back-references of the identified manuscripts were systematically searched from December 2019 to March 2023. We have identified 14 cases of pediatric mucormycosis in patients with COVID-19. The median age of patients was 10.7 years. Among these cases, 10 were associated with active COVID-19. In 7 cases, the patients had pre-existing diabetes mellitus and concomitant diabetic ketoacidosis. Corticosteroids were administered to treat COVID-19 in 7 of the patients. The most common clinical presentation of the disease was rhino-orbital cerebral mucormycosis. Seven patients died (50%). Given the high mortality rate, clinicians should maintain a high level of clinical suspicion of mucormycosis in pediatric patients with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fabianne Carlesse
- Oncology Pediatric Institute (IOP-GRAACC), Brazil; Department of Pediatrics, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Luana Rossato
- Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados-UFGD, Brazil.
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Fitero A, Negrut N, John HT, Ferician A, Marian P. Corona-Associated Mucormycosis: Case Series Reports and Review of the Literature. J Fungi (Basel) 2024; 10:305. [PMID: 38786660 PMCID: PMC11122562 DOI: 10.3390/jof10050305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, a significant increase in cases of mucormycosis was observed in COVID-19 patients, especially in India, but not exclusively. The presented cases highlight the heterogeneous nature of mucormycosis, emphasizing the importance of recognizing predisposing factors, such as immunosuppression, due to comorbidities or medication. Diagnosing mucormycosis poses a challenge due to nonspecific clinical manifestations, requiring a multidisciplinary approach for accurate diagnosis. Treatment involves a multi-pronged approach centered around the early initiation of antifungal therapy alongside surgical intervention and the management of underlying conditions, with an emphasis on controlling immunosuppression. Understanding the relationship between COVID-19 and predisposing factors for mucormycosis is fundamental for developing prevention and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreea Fitero
- Department of Psycho-Neuroscience and Recovery, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410073 Oradea, Romania;
- Doctoral School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410087 Oradea, Romania
| | - Nicoleta Negrut
- Department of Psycho-Neuroscience and Recovery, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410073 Oradea, Romania;
- Doctoral School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410087 Oradea, Romania
| | - Harrie Toms John
- Department of Ear, Nose and Throat, University Hospitals of Northamptonshire, Cliftonville, Northampton NN1 5BD, UK;
| | - Anca Ferician
- Department of Medical Disciplines, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410073 Oradea, Romania; (A.F.); (P.M.)
| | - Paula Marian
- Department of Medical Disciplines, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Oradea, 410073 Oradea, Romania; (A.F.); (P.M.)
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Igyártó BZ, Qin Z. The mRNA-LNP vaccines - the good, the bad and the ugly? Front Immunol 2024; 15:1336906. [PMID: 38390323 PMCID: PMC10883065 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1336906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The mRNA-LNP vaccine has received much attention during the COVID-19 pandemic since it served as the basis of the most widely used SARS-CoV-2 vaccines in Western countries. Based on early clinical trial data, these vaccines were deemed safe and effective for all demographics. However, the latest data raise serious concerns about the safety and effectiveness of these vaccines. Here, we review some of the safety and efficacy concerns identified to date. We also discuss the potential mechanism of observed adverse events related to the use of these vaccines and whether they can be mitigated by alterations of this vaccine mechanism approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Botond Z. Igyártó
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Andreescu M, Moldovan C, Lespezeanu DA, Mocanu AI, Schipor MA, Mocanu H. COVID-19-Associated Rhinocerebral Mucormycosis, an Incidental Finding or a Matter of Concern - Mixed-Method Systematic Review. Infect Drug Resist 2024; 17:387-402. [PMID: 38312523 PMCID: PMC10838509 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s445458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
With the advent of COVID-19, the number of patients diagnosed with mucormycosis has increased, especially in developing countries. The reason behind this increase is that COVID-19 causes hypoxia that promotes the growth of fungus. To identify the association between mucormycosis and COVID-19, in critically ill or immunocompromised COVID-19 patients. The literature included in the review was researched from October 1, 2021, to November 1, 2022, by using the Google Scholar database as the search engine. Of the 20 articles included, there were 4 case reports, 2 case series, 10 narrative reviews, and 4 quantitative studies. Mucormycetes growth is caused by several factors, including hyperglycemia owing to previously existing diabetes or excessive use of steroids, increased ferritin levels owing to the inflammatory cascade initiated by COVID-19, and immunosuppression caused by the use of steroids or other immunosuppressive therapy. Reduced white-cell count and activity in COVID-19 leads to increased germination of fungal spores hence developing a catastrophic picture of rhinocerebral mucormycosis. Considering that the hematological patient is frequently treated with cortisone, immunosuppressed due to the underlying condition, but also through the administered therapy, the association with a possible diabetes makes this patient susceptible to developing rhinocerebral mucormycosis during COVID-19 infection. Despite being severe, the association between mucormycosis and COVID-19 is specific and treatable. Development of mucormycosis in hematological patients suffering from severe COVID-19 disease is dangerous, yet not compulsory and can be prevented. Using a common steroid-dose protocol with hyperbaric oxygen and necessary preventive measure reveals the disease as a superadded infection. Hypoxia, poor glycemic control and overuse of steroids or immunosuppressive drugs cause it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihaela Andreescu
- Department of Hematology, Faculty of Medicine, "Titu Maiorescu" University, Bucharest, 031593, Romania
- Department of Hematology, Colentina Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, 01171, Romania
| | - Cosmin Moldovan
- Department of Medical Surgical Disciplines, Faculty of Medicine, "Titu Maiorescu" University, Bucharest, 031593, Romania
- Department of General Surgery, Witting Clinical Hospital, Bucharest, 010243, Romania
| | - Delia-Andreea Lespezeanu
- Doctoral School, Faculty of Medicine, "Titu Maiorescu" University, Bucharest, 031593, Romania
- "Ion Pavel" Diabetes Center, National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases "Prof.Dr.N.C. Paulescu", Bucharest, 030167, Romania
| | - Adela-Ioana Mocanu
- Doctoral School, Faculty of Medicine, "Titu Maiorescu" University, Bucharest, 031593, Romania
- Department of ENT&HNS, Polimed Medical Center, Bucharest, 040067, Romania
| | - Mihai-Adrian Schipor
- Institute of Space Technology and Space Applications, University of the Bundeswehr, München, 85579, Germany
| | - Horia Mocanu
- Department of ENT&HNS, Faculty of Medicine, "Titu Maiorescu" University, Bucharest, 031593, Romania
- Department of ENT&HNS, Găești City Hospital, Găești, Dâmbovița, 135200, Romania
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Shanmugasundaram S, Ramasamy V, Shiguru S. Role of histopathology in severity assessments of post-COVID-19 rhino-orbital cerebral mucormycosis - A case-control study. Ann Diagn Pathol 2023; 67:152183. [PMID: 37696132 DOI: 10.1016/j.anndiagpath.2023.152183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There was an upsurge in rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in India. Histopathological examination of the biopsies witnessed greater tissue invasion in these cases. The present study aimed to evaluate the histopathological scoring system in the severity assessment and to compare the scores between ROCM that required orbital exenteration (cases) and those that were treated conservatively (controls). MATERIAL AND METHODS A retrospective study was conducted to analyze the histopathological features using a scoring system in patients diagnosed with mucormycosis on sino nasal biopsies. The scoring was based on the following parameters: the extent of necrosis (score 1 <50% and score 2 >50%), degree of angioinvasion (score 1 <3 vessels in 10 fields and score 2 > 3 vessels in 10 fields), degree of inflammation (mild, moderate or severe), and fungal load(score 1 to 4), based on which three grades (I to III) were given. The scores were compared between the case group and the control group. The data obtained were analyzed statistically. RESULTS The study included 40 controls and 10 cases. The median age of patients in the control group was 52 with 82.5%males (n = 43) and 17.5 % females (n = 7) while in the case group, the median age was 51 years, and all were males. The predominant inflammatory response was of mixed suppurative type (70 %, n = 28). The degree of necrosis was scored 2 in 57.5 % (n = 23) of controls and 70 %(n = 7) in the case group. All the samples in the case group showed scores of 2 for angioinvasion and scores of 3 and 4 for fungal load. There was a statistically significant difference in the degree of necrosis, angioinvasion, the severity of neutrophilic infiltrates, and fungal load between the cases and controls (p-value <0.05). CONCLUSION The present study analyses the predictive role of histopathology in invasive mucormycosis. Higher fungal load, degree of angioinvasion, and the absence of granulomas are associated with advanced disease in sinonasal mucormycosis. The study findings recommend incorporating the histopathological scoring criteria in evaluating patients with sinonasal mucormycosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vidhyadevi Ramasamy
- Department of Ophthalmology, PSG Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, India
| | - Saudhamini Shiguru
- Department of Ophthalmology, PSG Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, India
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Fatima N, Ahmed S, Shameem M, Ahmed A, Hasan W, Khan PA. Rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis during Covid-19 pandemic- a prospective observational study. Indian J Med Microbiol 2023; 46:100467. [PMID: 37651764 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmmb.2023.100467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE An unprecedented rise in mucormycosis cases; apparently called 'an epidemic within a pandemic' was seen worldwide. Therefore, the following study was conducted to know the epidemiology, underlying risk factors, diagnostic approach, and possible outcome of mucormycosis during the Covid-19 pandemic. METHODS A prospective observational study was conducted on patients with a high index of clinical suspicion of mucormycosis Data about demographics, co-morbidities, laboratory investigations, radiology, management, and outcomes were collected. RESULTS We got 45 cases of proven Rhino-orbital-cerebral-mucormycosis (ROCM) from clinically suspected cases. Covid-19 was the most common underlying risk factor (n = 41, 91.11%) followed by Diabetes mellitus (DM) (n = 39; 86.67%). Steroids and oxygen usage were noted in 53.66% (n = 22) and 41.46% (n = 17) respectively. Among the 51 suspected cases of mucormycosis, 47 were supported by radiodiagnosis. Histopathology diagnosed the highest number of mucormycosis cases (n = 44; 97.78%), followed by KOH examination (n = 36; 80%) and Culture (n = 28; 62.22%). The most common species isolated from the tissue samples was Rhizopus species (n = 17; 60.71%), followed by Mucor species (n = 7; 25%). The mortality rate was 17.14%. CONCLUSION DM, Covid-19, and corticosteroids are the chief underlying risk factor for ROCM. Rhizopus spp. was the most dominant etiological agent. Early diagnosis and management with combined medical & surgical intervention have a better survival rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazish Fatima
- Department of Microbiology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, UP, India
| | - Shariq Ahmed
- Department of Microbiology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, UP, India.
| | - Mohammad Shameem
- Department of TB and Respiratory Disease, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, UP, India
| | - Aftab Ahmed
- Department of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, UP, India
| | - Wasil Hasan
- Department of Biochemistry, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, UP, India
| | - Parvez A Khan
- Department of Microbiology, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, UP, India
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Juyal D, Pal S, Negi N, Singh M, Kumar M, Singhal S. Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)-associated mucormycosis (CAM): The unholy triad of COVID-19, diabetes mellitus, and corticosteroid therapy. J Family Med Prim Care 2023; 12:2538-2541. [PMID: 38186842 PMCID: PMC10771147 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_1130_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/02/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
The whole world has battled with multiple waves of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 virus. However, the second wave of COVID-19 had caused a worldwide havoc in terms of disease transmissibility, severity, and mortality. India has been among the worst hit countries during the second wave, which substantially overburdened and overwhelmed the Indian health care system. While secondary infections and co-infections among COVID-19 patients were increasingly being reported, COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM) emerged as a new challenge particularly from India and became a matter of immediate concern. The most common causes attributed to the rise of CAM were undiagnosed/uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, excessive use of corticosteroids, and prolonged hospital stay, all of which create a perfect environment for mucormycosis infection to set in.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepak Juyal
- Department of Microbiology, Government Doon Medical College, Dehrakhas, Patel Nagar, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Shekhar Pal
- Department of Microbiology, Government Doon Medical College, Dehrakhas, Patel Nagar, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
- Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratory, Departments of Microbiology, Government Doon Medical College, Dehrakhas, Patel Nagar, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Nidhi Negi
- Department of Microbiology, Government Doon Medical College, Dehrakhas, Patel Nagar, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Minakshi Singh
- Department of Microbiology, Government Doon Medical College, Dehrakhas, Patel Nagar, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Manish Kumar
- Department of Microbiology, Government Doon Medical College, Dehrakhas, Patel Nagar, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Shweta Singhal
- Department of Microbiology, Government Doon Medical College, Dehrakhas, Patel Nagar, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
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Michael JS, Venkatesan M, Ninan MM, Solaimalai D, Sumanth LJ, Varghese L, Kurien R, Varghese RP, C GPD. Whole genome analysis of Rhizopus species causing rhino-cerebral mucormycosis during the COVID-19 pandemic. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1251456. [PMID: 38029246 PMCID: PMC10644343 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1251456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Mucormycosis is an acute invasive fungal disease (IFD) seen mainly in immunocompromised hosts and in patients with uncontrolled diabetes. The incidence of mucormycosis increased exponentially in India during the SARS-CoV-2 (henceforth COVID-19) pandemic. Since there was a lack of data on molecular epidemiology of Mucorales causing IFD during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, whole genome analysis of the Rhizopus spp. isolated during this period was studied along with the detection of mutations that are associated with antifungal drug resistance. Materials and methods A total of 50 isolates of Rhizopus spp. were included in this prospective study, which included 28 from patients with active COVID-19 disease, 9 from patients during the recovery phase, and 13 isolates from COVID-19-negative patients. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) was performed for the isolates, and the de novo assembly was done with the Spades assembler. Species identification was done by extracting the ITS gene sequence from each isolate followed by searching Nucleotide BLAST. The phylogenetic trees were made with extracted ITS gene sequences and 12 eukaryotic core marker gene sequences, respectively, to assess the genetic distance between our isolates. Mutations associated with intrinsic drug resistance to fluconazole and voriconazole were analyzed. Results All 50 patients presented to the hospital with acute fungal rhinosinusitis. These patients had a mean HbA1c of 11.2%, and a serum ferritin of 546.8 ng/mL. Twenty-five patients had received steroids. By WGS analysis, 62% of the Rhizopus species were identified as R. delemar. Bayesian analysis of population structure (BAPS) clustering categorized these isolates into five different groups, of which 28 belong to group 3, 9 to group 5, and 8 to group 1. Mutational analysis revealed that in the CYP51A gene, 50% of our isolates had frameshift mutations along with 7 synonymous mutations and 46% had only synonymous mutations, whereas in the CYP51B gene, 68% had only synonymous mutations and 26% did not have any mutations. Conclusion WGS analysis of Mucorales identified during and after the COVID-19 pandemic gives insight into the molecular epidemiology of these isolates in our community and establishes newer mechanisms for intrinsic azole resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joy Sarojini Michael
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Manigandan Venkatesan
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Marilyn Mary Ninan
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Dhanalakshmi Solaimalai
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Lydia Jennifer Sumanth
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Lalee Varghese
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Vellore, India
| | - Regi Kurien
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Vellore, India
| | - Rinku Polachirakkal Varghese
- Department of Integrative Biology, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) University, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - George Priya Doss C
- Department of Integrative Biology, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) University, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
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Abdorahimi M, Pakdel F, Salehi M, Alcazar-Fuoli L, Hashemi SJ, Daie Ghazvini R, Ahmadkhani F, Ahmadikia K, Abdollahi A, Debran JCS, Tabari A, Farrokh F, Mousavand A, Afarinesh Khaki P, Salami Khaneshan A, Ibrahim AS, Khodavaisy S. COVID-19 Associated Rhino-Orbital-Cerebral Mucormycosis: Clinical Features, Antifungal Susceptibility, Management and Outcome in a Tertiary Hospital in Iran. Mycopathologia 2023; 188:783-792. [PMID: 37672164 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-023-00785-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the unprecedented surge in the incidence of mucormycosis in the COVID-19 era, the antifungal susceptibility patterns (ASPs) of COVID-19 associated mucormycosis (CAM) isolates have not been investigated so far and it is unclear if the high mortality rate associated with CAM is driven by decreased susceptibility of Mucorales to antifungal drugs. OBJECTIVES To describe the clinical, mycological, outcome and in vitro ASPs of CAM cases and their etiologies from Iran. PATIENTS/METHODS A prospective study from January 2020 to January 2022 at a referral tertiary hospital in Tehran, Iran was conducted for screening mucormycosis through histopathology and mycological methods. The identity of Mucorales isolates was revealed with ITS-panfungal PCR& sequencing and MALDI-TOF. The AS for amphotericin B, itraconazole, isavuconazole and posaconazole was cleared according to the EUCAST antifungal susceptibility testing protocol. RESULT A total of 150 individuals were diagnosed with CAM. Males constituted 60.7% of the population. The mean age was 54.9 years. Diabetes was the leading risk factor (74.7%). The median interval between diagnosis of COVID-19 and CAM was 31 days. The recovery rate of culture was as low as 41.3% with Rhizopus arrhizus being identified as the dominant (60; 96.7%) agent. Amphotericin B (MIC50 = 0.5 µg/ml) demonstrated the highest potency against Mucorales. CONCLUSION Majority of the cases had either diabetes, history of corticosteroid therapy or simultaneously both conditions. Accordingly, close monitoring of blood glucose should be considered. The indications for corticosteroids therapy are recommended to be optimized. Also, an anti Mucorales prophylaxis may be necessitated to be administrated in high risk individuals. Although amphotericin B was the most active agent, a higher rate of resistance to this antifungal was noted here in comparison with earlier studies on mucormycetes from non-CAM cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Abdorahimi
- Department of Microbiology, Shahr-e-Qods Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzad Pakdel
- Department of Oculo-Facial Plastic Surgery, Department of Ophthalmology, Farabi Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammadreza Salehi
- Research Center for Antibiotic Stewardship and Antimicrobial Resistance, Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Laura Alcazar-Fuoli
- Mycology Reference Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Seyed Jamal Hashemi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roshanak Daie Ghazvini
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fardin Ahmadkhani
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Kazem Ahmadikia
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Abdollahi
- Department of Pathology, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Juan Carlos Soto Debran
- Mycology Reference Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Azin Tabari
- Otorhinolaryngology Research Center, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Farrokh
- Otorhinolaryngology Research Center, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Atefeh Mousavand
- Department of Pathology, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pegah Afarinesh Khaki
- Department of Pathology, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Arezoo Salami Khaneshan
- Research Center for Antibiotic Stewardship and Antimicrobial Resistance, Department of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ashraf S Ibrahim
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, CA, USA
- Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sadegh Khodavaisy
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Raina D, Rohilla R, Patwal S, Pandita A. The Second COVID-19 Wave Is a Tsunami With Aftershocks: Mucormycosis Ire as Seen in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Uttarakhand, India. Cureus 2023; 15:e47358. [PMID: 38021725 PMCID: PMC10657149 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.47358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) or the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic in recent times, an upsurge of invasive fungal infections (IFIs) such as mucormycosis was witnessed by many countries like India. This COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM) has presented as a menace to the already creaking health infrastructure. Clinical manifestations, risk factors, and end clinical outcomes varied for every other region/country. The aim of this study is to delineate and analyze plausible clinical and epidemiological factors and associated predictors of CAM in suspected patients presenting to a tertiary care hospital in Uttarakhand, India, during the second wave of COVID-19 in India. MATERIAL AND METHODS A total of 200 cases of suspected post‑COVID-19 mucormycosis were enrolled. Data were collected taking into account parameters such as hospitalization and ICU admissions during the episode of COVID-19 infection, steroid/antibiotics/oxygen requirement, and comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, or any chronic illness and outcome. RESULTS Participants diagnosed with CAM using KOH examination and fungal culture were analyzed in the study (n=46). The median age of patients included was 48, 73.9% were males, and 26% were females. The major predisposing factor was found to be diabetes mellitus type 2. Our work suggests that the mean duration between COVID-19 episodes and CAM was 11.86 days with a significant statistical association. Oxygen requirement and imprudent use of steroids/antibiotics were also allied with mucormycosis. CONCLUSION The burden of such IFIs is expected to be unveiled in tropical countries during pandemics such as COVID-19, which lead to immunosuppression in masses post-treatment. Comorbidities such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and hypertension add to the risk of acquiring other infectious disease. Such times require competent healthcare professionals such as diagnosticians, physicians, and surgeons who are skilled to manage such IFIs timely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimple Raina
- Microbiology, Shri Guru Ram Rai Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, Dehradun, IND
| | - Ranjana Rohilla
- Microbiology, Shri Guru Ram Rai Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, Dehradun, IND
| | - Shiwang Patwal
- Microbiology, Shri Guru Ram Rai Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, Dehradun, IND
| | - Ajay Pandita
- Community Medicine, Shri Guru Ram Rai Institute of Medical and Health Sciences, Dehradun, IND
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12
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Sharma B, Nonzom S. Mucormycosis and Its Upsurge During COVID-19 Epidemic: An Updated Review. Curr Microbiol 2023; 80:322. [PMID: 37592083 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-023-03430-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
Although mucormycosis may have reached an epidemic situation during the COVID-19 pandemic, the term was much more familiar even before the COVID-19 period. The year 2020 showed an outbreak of novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) which affected millions of people all over the world. One of the noticeable complications observed to be associated with this disease is mucormycosis. It is an opportunistic infection caused by members of the Order Mucorales existing worldwide and has been commonly reported as a laboratory contaminant for a long time. However, nowadays due to the changes in the host environment, they have been emerging as potent opportunistic pathogens responsible for causing primary infections or coinfections with other diseases eventually resulting in morbidity and even mortality in severe cases. Although immunocompromised patients are more susceptible to this infection, few cases have been reported in immunocompetent individuals. Various risk factors which are responsible for the acquisition of mucormycosis include diabetes mellitus type 2, ketoacidosis, hematological malignancies, organ transplants, and chemotherapy recipients. Among the various etiological agents, Rhizopus is found to be the most common, and rhino-cerebral to be the most frequent clinical presentation. As far as pathogenesis is concerned, host cell invasion, thrombosis, and necrosis are the main events in the progression of this disease. The aim of the present review is to address a complete spectrum of mucormycosis and COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM) in a single article. Both global and Indian scenarios of mucormycosis are taken into account while framing this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bharti Sharma
- Department of Botany, University of Jammu, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, 180006, India
| | - Skarma Nonzom
- Department of Botany, University of Jammu, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, 180006, India.
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13
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Shukla P, Deswal D, Narula AK. Antifungal activity of novel azetidine tethered chitosan synthesized via multicomponent reaction approach. J Mycol Med 2023; 33:101409. [PMID: 37354816 PMCID: PMC10266883 DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2023.101409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
The increasing incidences of fungal infections among Covid-19 infected patients is a global public concern and urgently demands novel antifungals. Biopolymers like chitosan hold unique structural properties and thus can be utilized in the synthesis of biologically important scaffolds. To address the current scenario, the author's synthesized novel chitosan-azetidine derivative by adopting one-pot multicomponent reaction approach. The influence of chemical modification on the structural characteristics was investigated by means of spectroscopic techniques viz. FT-IR and 1HNMR and elemental analysis. Additionally, the authors investigated the antifungal potential of chitosan-azetidine derivative against Aspergillus fumigatus 3007 and the results indicated higher antifungal effect with an antifungal inhibitory index of 26.19%. The SEM and confocal microscopy images also reflected a significant inhibitory effect on the morphology of fungal mycelia, thus reflecting the potential of synthesized chitosan-azetidine derivativeas a potential antifungal agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Shukla
- University School of Basic and Applied Sciences, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, New Delhi 110078, India
| | - D Deswal
- Centre of Excellence in Pharmaceutical Sciences (CEPS), Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Delhi 110078, India
| | - A K Narula
- University School of Basic and Applied Sciences, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, New Delhi 110078, India; Centre of Excellence in Pharmaceutical Sciences (CEPS), Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Delhi 110078, India.
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14
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Gurukkalot K, Rajendran V. Repurposing Polyether Ionophores as a New-Class of Anti-SARS-Cov-2 Agents as Adjunct Therapy. Curr Microbiol 2023; 80:273. [PMID: 37414909 DOI: 10.1007/s00284-023-03366-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 and its variants have posed a significant threat to humankind in tackling the viral spread. Furthermore, currently repurposed drugs and frontline antiviral agents have failed to cure severe ongoing infections effectively. This insufficiency has fuelled research for potent and safe therapeutic agents to treat COVID-19. Nonetheless, various vaccine candidates have displayed a differential efficacy and need for repetitive dosing. The FDA-approved polyether ionophore veterinary antibiotic for treating coccidiosis has been repurposed for treating SARS-CoV-2 infection (as shown by both in vitro and in vivo studies) and other deadly human viruses. Based on selectivity index values, ionophores display therapeutic effects at sub-nanomolar concentrations and exhibit selective killing ability. They act on different viral targets (structural and non-structural proteins), host-cell components leading to SARS-CoV-2 inhibition, and their activity is further enhanced by Zn2+ supplementation. This review summarizes the anti-SARS-CoV-2 potential and molecular viral targets of selective ionophores like monensin, salinomycin, maduramicin, CP-80,219, nanchangmycin, narasin, X-206 and valinomycin. Ionophore combinations with Zn2+ are a new therapeutic strategy that warrants further investigation for possible human benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keerthana Gurukkalot
- Department of Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Puducherry, 605014, India
| | - Vinoth Rajendran
- Department of Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, Pondicherry University, Puducherry, 605014, India.
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15
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Shahin MA, Abu-Elenin MM, Nada HE. Effect of nurse-led intervention on knowledge and preventive behavior of diabetic pregnant women regarding COVID-19 associated mucromycosis infection in mid-delta region of Egypt. BMC Nurs 2023; 22:175. [PMID: 37211603 DOI: 10.1186/s12912-023-01320-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Black fungus (mycoses) is an opportunistic invasive infection that predominantly occurred among immunosuppressed persons. It has been recently detected in COVID-19 patients. The pregnant diabetic woman is susceptible to such infections and needs recognition for protection. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the nurse-led intervention on the knowledge and preventive practice of diabetic pregnant women regarding fungal mycosis during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD This quasi-experimental study was conducted at maternal health care centers in Shebin El-Kom, Menoufia Governorate, Egypt. The study recruited 73 diabetic pregnant women through a systematic random sampling of pregnant women attending the maternity clinic during the period of the study. A structured interview questionnaire was used to measure their knowledge regarding Mucormycosis and COVID-19 manifestations. The preventive practices were assessed through an observational checklist of hygienic practice, insulin administration, and blood glucose monitoring for the prevention of Mucormycosis infection. RESULTS The study revealed a statistically significant increment in the participants' knowledge, preventive practice, personal hygiene, and diabetes self-care scores (9.56 ± 1.75 ,3.6 ± 1.18, 3.18 ± 1.29 post-intervention) comparable to (6.19 ± 1.66, 1.97 ± 1.35, 0.89 ± 1.38 pre-intervention) respectively. There was a significant improvement in the overall COVID-19 protective score against Mucormycosis (from 2.66 ± 1.74 to 4.53 ± 1.43). CONCLUSION Nursing educational sessions had a positive effect on pregnant women's awareness and preventive behavior. Hence, it is recommended to integrate nurse-led intervention targeting the preventive practice against COVID-19-associated Mucormycosis infection (CAM) as routine services for diabetic pregnant women during antenatal care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwa A Shahin
- Department of Maternal and Newborn Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Egypt
- Batterjee Medical College for Science and Technology, P.O.Box 23819, Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Street, North Abhor, Jeddah, 21442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mira M Abu-Elenin
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, P.O. Box 31527, El-Gaish Street, Medical Campus, Tanta, Egypt.
- Batterjee Medical College for Science and Technology, P.O.Box 23819, Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Street, North Abhor, Jeddah, 21442, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Hanan E Nada
- Department of Maternal and Newborn Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Egypt
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16
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Jadhav H, Vishwakarma P, Thamke S, Pundkar S, Takle T, Khairnar M. Correlation of Mucormycosis with Various Clinical Parameters Among COVID-19 Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Maxillofac Oral Surg 2023:1-5. [PMID: 37362876 PMCID: PMC10186283 DOI: 10.1007/s12663-023-01919-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), during the second wave in early 2021, caused devastating chaos in India. As daily infection rates continue to rise alarmingly, the number of severe cases also increased dramatically. Mucormycosis is an infection caused by filamentous molds, and there was a rise in mucormycosis cases after COVID-19 infection. The aim of the study is to assess various parameters associated with mucormycosis patients who suffered from COVID-19. Material and Methodology This study was a cross-sectional questionnaire study. The target population for the study were 70 mucormycosis-infected patients (51 = males, 19 = females). The questionnaire mainly focused on association of various parameters of COVID-19 with mucormycosis. Results Result showed that out of 70 cases of mucormycosis the association was found between history of diabetes mellitus 45 (64.2%), type of hospitalization, number of days of hospitalization, oxygen administered, type and maintenance of face mask, i.e., patient who had reused mask by washing 59 (84.3%), and method of oral hygiene practices. Conclusion Mucormycosis is extremely rare in population. The study findings emphasize the need to be aware of invasive mucormycosis developing in COVID-19 patients, especially including patients with diabetes mellitus and outside the ICU, patient who had poor oral hygiene during COVID-19, patients receiving oxygen therapy should ensure that the water in the humidifier is clean and is refilled regularly, knowledge and education about the use of the facemask.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harish Jadhav
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, ACPM Dental College, Dhule, Maharashtra India
| | - Prashanth Vishwakarma
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, ACPM Dental College, Dhule, Maharashtra India
| | - Snehal Thamke
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, ACPM Dental College, Dhule, Maharashtra India
| | - Shruti Pundkar
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, ACPM Dental College, Dhule, Maharashtra India
| | - Trupti Takle
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, ACPM Dental College, Dhule, Maharashtra India
| | - Mahesh Khairnar
- Unit of Public Health Dentistry, Faculty of Dental Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh India
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Rathod DK, Chakravarthy C, Suryadevara SS, Patil RS, Wagdargi SS. Stress Distribution of the Zygomatic Implants in Post-mucormycosis Case: A Finite Element Analysis. J Maxillofac Oral Surg 2023:1-7. [PMID: 37362879 PMCID: PMC10098241 DOI: 10.1007/s12663-023-01914-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim The aim of this study was to assess the stress distribution of the zygomatic implants in maxillectomy cases and to understand the long-term prognosis of this rehabilitation option using finite element analysis. Materials and Methods A three-dimensional finite element model was designed using computed tomography of a patient who underwent maxillectomy post-mucormycosis. Zygomatic implants and abutments were designed based on the manufacturer's design. Quad zygomatic implants were placed in the canine and premolar region into the zygomatic bone bilaterally. A prosthesis with an entire complement of teeth extending from the first molar teeth bilaterally was designed and attached to the multiunit abutments and zygomatic implants. Forces were applied to the zygomatic implants at six different locations bilaterally on the prosthesis which included occlusal and laterally directed forces on the central incisor region, canine region, and molar region using von Mises criteria. A three-dimensional finite element analysis was run, and maximum stress distribution was recorded at various loads. Statistical Package for Social Sciences for Windows version 22.0 Released 2013. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp., was used to perform statistical analyses. Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare the mean stress values. Multiple comparisons of mean difference in stress values between force applications in implant were done using Dunn's post hoc test. Results The maximum stress was observed at the distal head of the implant in the models. Minimum stress was observed at the apex of the implant in the models. The mean stress values based on force application in the bone and fixed prosthesis showed less significance when compared to the zygomatic implants which was statistically significant at p = 0.03.
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Affiliation(s)
- Drusti K. Rathod
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Navodaya Dental College and Hospital, Raichur, Karnataka 584103 India
| | - Chitra Chakravarthy
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Navodaya Dental College and Hospital, Raichur, Karnataka 584103 India
| | - Sri Sujan Suryadevara
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Anil Nerukonda Institute of Dental Sciences, Vishakhapatnam, Andra Pradesh India
| | - Ravi S. Patil
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, AME’s Dental College and Hospital, Raichur, Karnataka 584102 India
| | - Shivaraj S. Wagdargi
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Navodaya Dental College and Hospital, Raichur, Karnataka 584103 India
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Kumar P, Rao UR R, Roy N, Agrawal D, Ahmad S, Bhavana K. Quality of life in patients treated for COVID-19-associated mucormycosis at a tertiary care hospital. Osong Public Health Res Perspect 2023; 14:119-128. [PMID: 37183332 PMCID: PMC10211455 DOI: 10.24171/j.phrp.2022.0307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-associated mucormycosis (CAM) has emerged as a formidable infection in patients with COVID-19. The aggressive management of CAM affects quality of life (QOL); thus, this study was designed to assess the QOL in patients with CAM at a tertiary healthcare institution. METHODS This cross-sectional study of 57 patients with CAM was conducted over 6 months using a semi-structured standard questionnaire (the abbreviated World Health Organization Quality of Life questionnaire [WHO-BREF]) and a self-rated improvement (SRI) scale ranging from 0 to 9. Cut-off values of ≤52 and <7 were considered to indicate poor QOL and poor improvement, respectively. The correlations of QOL and SRI scores were evaluated using Spearman rho values. RESULTS In total, 27 patients (47.4%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 34.9%-60.1%) and 26 patients (45.6%; 95% CI, 33.4%-58.4%) had poor QOL and poor SRI scores, respectively. The overall median (interquartile range) QOL score was 52 (41-63). Headache (adjusted B, -12.3), localized facial puffiness (adjusted B , -16.4), facial discoloration (adjusted B, -23.4), loosening of teeth (adjusted B, -18.7), and facial palsy (adjusted B, -38.5) wer e significantly associated with the QOL score in patients with CAM. CONCLUSION Approximately 1 in 2 patients with CAM had poor QOL and poor improvement. Various CAM symptoms were associated with QOL in these patients. Early recognition is the key to optimal treatment, improved outcomes, and improved QOL in patients with CAM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pragya Kumar
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, India
| | - Rajath Rao UR
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, India
| | - Nilanjan Roy
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, India
| | - Deepika Agrawal
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, India
| | - Shamshad Ahmad
- Department of Community and Family Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, India
| | - Kranti Bhavana
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, India
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Banerjee A, Das M, Verma P, Chatterjee A, Ramalingam K, Srivastava KC. COVID-19 and Mucormycosis of Orofacial Region: A Scoping Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e37984. [PMID: 37223184 PMCID: PMC10202344 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.37984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
During the second wave of coronavirus disease, or COVID-19, infection due to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus in the year 2021 around the globe, there is a surge in the number of cases of mucormycosis or "Black Fungus" that is directly/indirectly associated with COVID-19. In this review article, mucormycosis of the orofacial region has gained importance from the maximum published literature (45 articles) from various databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase. Rhino-orbital cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) is a fatal condition associated with COVID-19 among categories of mucormycosis such as pulmonary, oral, gastrointestinal, cutaneous, and disseminated. ROCM targets the maxillary sinus, also involving teeth of the maxilla, orbits, and ethmoidal sinus. These are of particular interest to dentists and oral pathologists for proper diagnosis and identification. Co-morbid conditions, especially diabetes mellitus type II, have to be monitored carefully in COVID-19 patients as they have a higher risk of developing mucormycosis. In this review article, various presentations of COVID-19-linked mucormycosis are mentioned having particular emphasis on pathogenesis, signs and symptoms, clinical presentation, various diagnostic modalities including histopathology, radiology like CT and MRI, serology, tissue culture, various laboratory investigations, treatment protocols, management with prognosis, and so on. Any suspected case of mucormycosis needs quick detection and treatment since it progresses quickly due to the destructive course of infection. Long-term follow-up along with proper care is a must to detect any kind of recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhisek Banerjee
- Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, Awadh Dental College and Hospital, Jamshedpur, IND
| | - Moumalini Das
- Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, Awadh Dental College and Hospital, Jamshedpur, IND
| | - Pooja Verma
- Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, Awadh Dental College and Hospital, Jamshedpur, IND
| | - Abhishek Chatterjee
- Dentistry, Rampurhat Government Medical College and Hospital, Rampurhat, IND
| | - Karthikeyan Ramalingam
- Oral pathology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, IND
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Recommendations and guidelines for the diagnosis and management of Coronavirus Disease-19 (COVID-19) associated bacterial and fungal infections in Taiwan. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY, IMMUNOLOGY, AND INFECTION = WEI MIAN YU GAN RAN ZA ZHI 2023; 56:207-235. [PMID: 36586743 PMCID: PMC9767873 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmii.2022.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) is an emerging infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 that has rapidly evolved into a pandemic to cause over 600 million infections and more than 6.6 million deaths up to Nov 25, 2022. COVID-19 carries a high mortality rate in severe cases. Co-infections and secondary infections with other micro-organisms, such as bacterial and fungus, further increases the mortality and complicates the diagnosis and management of COVID-19. The current guideline provides guidance to physicians for the management and treatment of patients with COVID-19 associated bacterial and fungal infections, including COVID-19 associated bacterial infections (CABI), pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA), candidiasis (CAC) and mucormycosis (CAM). Recommendations were drafted by the 7th Guidelines Recommendations for Evidence-based Antimicrobial agents use Taiwan (GREAT) working group after review of the current evidence, using the grading of recommendations assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) methodology. A nationwide expert panel reviewed the recommendations in March 2022, and the guideline was endorsed by the Infectious Diseases Society of Taiwan (IDST). This guideline includes the epidemiology, diagnostic methods and treatment recommendations for COVID-19 associated infections. The aim of this guideline is to provide guidance to physicians who are involved in the medical care for patients with COVID-19 during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
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Apari P, Földvári G. Domestication and microbiome succession may drive pathogen spillover. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1102337. [PMID: 37007505 PMCID: PMC10065160 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1102337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging infectious diseases have posed growing medical, social and economic threats to humanity. The biological background of pathogen spillover or host switch, however, still has to be clarified. Disease ecology finds pathogen spillovers frequently but struggles to explain at the molecular level. Contrarily, molecular biological traits of host-pathogen relationships with specific molecular binding mechanisms predict few spillovers. Here we aim to provide a synthetic explanation by arguing that domestication, horizontal gene transfer even between superkingdoms as well as gradual exchange of microbiome (microbiome succession) are essential in the whole scenario. We present a new perspective at the molecular level which can explain the observations of frequent pathogen spillover events at the ecological level. This proposed rationale is described in detail, along with supporting evidence from the peer-reviewed literature and suggestions for testing hypothesis validity. We also highlight the importance of systematic monitoring of virulence genes across taxonomical categories and in the whole biosphere as it helps prevent future epidemics and pandemics. We conclude that that the processes of domestication, horizontal gene transfer and microbial succession might be important mechanisms behind the many spillover events driven and accelerated by climate change, biodiversity loss and globalization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Péter Apari
- Institute of Evolution, Centre for Ecological Research, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Gábor Földvári
- Institute of Evolution, Centre for Ecological Research, Budapest, Hungary
- Centre for Eco-Epidemiology, National Laboratory for Health Security, Budapest, Hungary
- *Correspondence: Gábor Földvári,
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Mahalakshmi V, Balobaid A, Kanisha B, Sasirekha R, Ramkumar Raja M. Artificial Intelligence: A Next-Level Approach in Confronting the COVID-19 Pandemic. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11060854. [PMID: 36981511 PMCID: PMC10048108 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11060854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) which caused coronavirus diseases (COVID-19) in late 2019 in China created a devastating economical loss and loss of human lives. To date, 11 variants have been identified with minimum to maximum severity of infection and surges in cases. Bacterial co-infection/secondary infection is identified during viral respiratory infection, which is a vital reason for morbidity and mortality. The occurrence of secondary infections is an additional burden to the healthcare system; therefore, the quick diagnosis of both COVID-19 and secondary infections will reduce work pressure on healthcare workers. Therefore, well-established support from Artificial Intelligence (AI) could reduce the stress in healthcare and even help in creating novel products to defend against the coronavirus. AI is one of the rapidly growing fields with numerous applications for the healthcare sector. The present review aims to access the recent literature on the role of AI and how its subfamily machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) are used to curb the pandemic’s effects. We discuss the role of AI in COVID-19 infections, the detection of secondary infections, technology-assisted protection from COVID-19, global laws and regulations on AI, and the impact of the pandemic on public life.
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Affiliation(s)
- V. Mahalakshmi
- Department of Computer Science, College of Computer Science & Information Technology, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
- Correspondence: or
| | - Awatef Balobaid
- Department of Computer Science, College of Computer Science & Information Technology, Jazan University, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - B. Kanisha
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, School of Computing, College of Engineering and Technology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpattu 603203, India
| | - R. Sasirekha
- Department of Computing Technologies, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur Campus, Chengalpattu 603203, India
| | - M. Ramkumar Raja
- Department of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering, King Khalid University, Abha 62529, Saudi Arabia
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23
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Imaging of Head and Neck Infections. Neuroimaging Clin N Am 2023; 33:185-206. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nic.2022.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Gunathilaka MGRSS, Senevirathna RMISK, Illappereruma SC, Keragala KARK, Hathagoda KLW, Bandara HMHN. Mucormycosis-causing fungi in humans: a meta-analysis establishing the phylogenetic relationships using internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences. J Med Microbiol 2023; 72. [PMID: 36762526 DOI: 10.1099/jmm.0.001651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction. Mucormycosis is a severe angio-invasive fungal infection caused by mucormycetes, a group of fungi that are ubiquitous in the environment. The incidence of mucormycosis has been surging rapidly due to the global corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.Gap Statement. The complete picture of the causative fungi associated with mucormycosis and their phylogenetic relationships are not well defined.Aim. This meta-analysis aimed to collate all confirmed fungal pathogens that cause mucormycosis, and assess their taxonomic relationships.Methodology. All types of articles in the PubMed database that report fungi as a cause of mucormycosis were reviewed. We summarized the fungal morphological characteristic up to the genus level. The internal transcribed spacer (ITS) nucleotide sequences of these fungi were retrieved from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) and UNITE databases whenever available, and multiple sequence analysis was conducted using Clustal W. The phylogenetic tree was constructed using mega version 7.Results. Forty-seven fungal species were identified as pathogens causing mucormycosis in humans. Thirty-two fungal species were phylogenetically grouped into three clades, and it was evident that the ITS sequences have well-conserved regions in all clades, especially from the 400th to 500th base pairs.Conclusion. The findings of this work contribute to the descriptive data for fungi that cause mucormycosis, emphasizing the need for robust phylogenetic approaches when identifying clinical isolates from infected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- M G R S S Gunathilaka
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Mihintale, Sri Lanka
| | - R M I S K Senevirathna
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Mihintale, Sri Lanka
| | - S C Illappereruma
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Mihintale, Sri Lanka
| | - K A R K Keragala
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine and Allied Sciences, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Mihintale, Sri Lanka
| | - K L W Hathagoda
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka
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Pathak L, Tripathi A, Nayyar SS, Kurkure R, Yadav A, Mishra J, Das B, Tiwari S. Management of post-COVID mucormycosis at a tertiary care center in Northern India. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF OTOLARYNGOLOGY 2023. [PMCID: PMC9869295 DOI: 10.1186/s43163-023-00388-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
Our study aims to compile data on the clinical presentation, pathological and radiological findings in cases of post-COVID mucormycosis, and present the management strategy used in our center.
Methods
This is a retrospective cohort observational study based at a tertiary healthcare institution in Northern India. All COVID-positive patients presenting with clinical features of mucormycosis were included in the study. They underwent complete otorhinolaryngeal, medical, and ophthalmological examination after thorough history taking. Biochemical tests, biopsy and imaging studies were done for all the patients. The treatment strategy included a multidisciplinary team approach, that is, intravenous antifungals as well as surgical debridement of necrotic tissue via Modified Denker’s approach or open maxillectomy, and orbital exenteration, if required. Patients were followed up for six months to look for recurrence.
Results
Twenty-three patients were studied, out of which 14 were males and 9 were females. Pathological findings of 13 out of 15 patients, who underwent surgical debridement revealed mucormycosis as a causative agent, received Amphotericin. Aspergillus was found in two cases which received Voriconazole. Eleven out of 20 patients who were treated in our hospital survived. Three patients were lost to follow up. The average hospital stay of discharged patients was 14 days.
Conclusion
Post-COVID mucormycosis was reported at an alarming rate after the second COVID wave in India especially after steroid therapies in diabetic patients. Thus a timely, aggressive, team approach using Modified Denkers or open maxillectomy along with proper intravenous antifungals is the key to survival in such patients.
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Hoque MN, Rahman MS, Sarkar MMH, Habib MA, Akter S, Banu TA, Goswami B, Jahan I, Hossain MA, Khan MS, Islam T. Transcriptome analysis reveals increased abundance and diversity of opportunistic fungal pathogens in nasopharyngeal tract of COVID-19 patients. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0278134. [PMID: 36656835 PMCID: PMC9851516 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
We previously reported that SARS-CoV-2 infection reduces human nasopharyngeal commensal microbiomes (bacteria, archaea and commensal respiratory viruses) with inclusion of pathobionts. This study aimed to assess the possible changes in the abundance and diversity of resident mycobiome in the nasopharyngeal tract (NT) of humans due to SARS-CoV-2 infections. Twenty-two (n = 22) nasopharyngeal swab samples (including COVID-19 = 8, Recovered = 7, and Healthy = 7) were collected for RNA-sequencing followed by taxonomic profiling of mycobiome. Our analyses indicate that SARS-CoV-2 infection significantly increased (p < 0.05, Wilcoxon test) the population and diversity of fungi in the NT with inclusion of a high proportion of opportunistic pathogens. We detected 863 fungal species including 533, 445, and 188 species in COVID-19, Recovered, and Healthy individuals, respectively that indicate a distinct mycobiome dysbiosis due to the SARS-CoV-2 infection. Remarkably, 37% of the fungal species were exclusively associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection, where S. cerevisiae (88.62%) and Phaffia rhodozyma (10.30%) were two top abundant species. Likewise, Recovered humans NT samples were predominated by Aspergillus penicillioides (36.64%), A. keveii (23.36%), A. oryzae (10.05%) and A. pseudoglaucus (4.42%). Conversely, Nannochloropsis oceanica (47.93%), Saccharomyces pastorianus (34.42%), and S. cerevisiae (2.80%) were the top abundant fungal species in Healthy controls nasal swabs. Importantly, 16% commensal fungal species found in the Healthy controls were not detected in either COVID-19 patients or when they were cured from COVID-19 (Recovered). We also detected several altered metabolic pathways correlated with the dysbiosis of fungal mycobiota in COVID-19 patients. Our results suggest that SARS-CoV-2 infection causes significant dysbiosis of mycobiome and related metabolic functions possibly play a determining role in the progression of SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis. These findings might be helpful for developing mycobiome-based diagnostics, and also devising appropriate therapeutic regimens including antifungal drugs for prevention and control of concurrent fungal coinfections in COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Nazmul Hoque
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Reproductive Health, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University (BSMRAU), Gazipur, Bangladesh
| | - M. Shaminur Rahman
- Department of Microbiology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Jashore, Bangladesh
| | | | - Md Ahashan Habib
- Bangladesh Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhanmondi, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Shahina Akter
- Bangladesh Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhanmondi, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Tanjina Akhtar Banu
- Bangladesh Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhanmondi, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Barna Goswami
- Bangladesh Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhanmondi, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Iffat Jahan
- Bangladesh Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhanmondi, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - M. Anwar Hossain
- Jashore Unive rsity of Science and Technology, Jashore, Bangladesh
| | - M. Salim Khan
- Bangladesh Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (BCSIR), Dhanmondi, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Tofazzal Islam
- Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (IBGE), BSMRAU, Gazipur, Bangladesh
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Akter A, Lyons O, Mehra V, Isenman H, Abbate V. Radiometal chelators for infection diagnostics. FRONTIERS IN NUCLEAR MEDICINE (LAUSANNE, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 2:1058388. [PMID: 37388440 PMCID: PMC7614707 DOI: 10.3389/fnume.2022.1058388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Infection of native tissues or implanted devices is common, but clinical diagnosis is frequently difficult and currently available noninvasive tests perform poorly. Immunocompromised individuals (for example transplant recipients, or those with cancer) are at increased risk. No imaging test in clinical use can specifically identify infection, or accurately differentiate bacterial from fungal infections. Commonly used [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose (18FDG) positron emission computed tomography (PET/CT) is sensitive for infection, but limited by poor specificity because increased glucose uptake may also indicate inflammation or malignancy. Furthermore, this tracer provides no indication of the type of infective agent (bacterial, fungal, or parasitic). Imaging tools that directly and specifically target microbial pathogens are highly desirable to improve noninvasive infection diagnosis and localization. A growing field of research is exploring the utility of radiometals and their chelators (siderophores), which are small molecules that bind radiometals and form a stable complex allowing sequestration by microbes. This radiometal-chelator complex can be directed to a specific microbial target in vivo, facilitating anatomical localization by PET or single photon emission computed tomography. Additionally, bifunctional chelators can further conjugate therapeutic molecules (e.g., peptides, antibiotics, antibodies) while still bound to desired radiometals, combining specific imaging with highly targeted antimicrobial therapy. These novel therapeutics may prove a useful complement to the armamentarium in the global fight against antimicrobial resistance. This review will highlight current state of infection imaging diagnostics and their limitations, strategies to develop infection-specific diagnostics, recent advances in radiometal-based chelators for microbial infection imaging, challenges, and future directions to improve targeted diagnostics and/or therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma Akter
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Oliver Lyons
- Vascular Endovascular and Transplant Surgery, Christchurch Public Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
- Department of Surgery, University of Otago, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Varun Mehra
- Department of Hematology, King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Heather Isenman
- Department of Infectious Diseases, General Medicine, Christchurch Hospital, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Vincenzo Abbate
- Department of Analytical, Environmental and Forensic Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
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Amalanathan S, Satish Kumar C, Abinaya R, Prathiba K, Kumaran Ramesh C, Kavitha B, Malini A, Amudhasubba R. Clinical profile of COVID-19-associated mucormycosis patients and the clinical suspects: a descriptive audit. THE EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF OTOLARYNGOLOGY 2023; 39:73. [PMCID: PMC10127177 DOI: 10.1186/s43163-023-00430-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Background India witnessed a massive surge of rhino orbital cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) cases during the second wave of COVID-19, recording the highest number of cases in the world, indeed, an epidemic within the pandemic. Objectives To describe the clinical profile of patients with COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM) and the clinical suspects for mucormycosis. Methods This single-center descriptive, observational study/audit was done at Indira Gandhi Medical College, Pondicherry, South India. This study is about the clinical profile of 7 CAM patients and 14 COVID-19 patients who were suspects of CAM, based on their risk factors and clinical symptoms, and were referred to the ENT department. Statistical analysis All the descriptive variables were summarized as mean, frequency, and percentages for qualitative data. Results All 7 CAM patients were COVID-19 positive and were not vaccinated against COVID-19, All 7 were known diabetic, all 7 had steroid therapy for their COVID status, and 5 out of 7 (71%) had uncontrolled diabetes mellitus at the time of diagnosis. Facial pain, nasal discharge, and eye swelling were the presenting symptoms of CAM. Maxillary and ethmoid sinuses were the most commonly involved para nasal sinuses. Four out of seven (57.1%) CAM patients survived after 16 months of follow-up, after surgical and medical treatment for CAM. Of the 14 clinical suspects who were negative for CAM, 2 were negative for COVID-19, their risk factors were brought under control, 3 expired due to COVID complications, and 9 patients are alive till date. Conclusion Uncontrolled diabetes is a risk factor for ROCM/CAM, another possible risk factor is steroid therapy, and we hypothesize that COVID infection could also be a possible risk factor that needs to be studied more extensively in a larger sample. Early clinical suspicion, withdrawal of steroids, rapid control of diabetes mellitus, appropriate investigations, and early surgical intervention combined with medical treatment offers better outcome. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s43163-023-00430-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia Amalanathan
- Department of ENT, Indira Gandhi Medical College & Research Institute, Pondicherry, India
| | - C Satish Kumar
- Department of ENT, Indira Gandhi Medical College & Research Institute, Pondicherry, India
| | - R Abinaya
- Department of ENT, Indira Gandhi Medical College & Research Institute, Pondicherry, India
| | - K Prathiba
- Department of ENT, Indira Gandhi Medical College & Research Institute, Pondicherry, India
| | - Colbert Kumaran Ramesh
- Department of ENT, Indira Gandhi Medical College & Research Institute, Pondicherry, India
| | - B Kavitha
- Department of Medicine, Indira Gandhi Medical College & Research Institute, Pondicherry, India
| | - A Malini
- Department of Microbiology, Indira Gandhi Medical College & Research Institute, Pondicherry, India
| | - Reddy Amudhasubba
- Department of Ophthalomology, Indira Gandhi Medical College & Research Institute, Pondicherry, India
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Mycobiome profiling of nasopharyngeal region of SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals. Microbes Infect 2023; 25:105059. [PMID: 36241143 PMCID: PMC9553963 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2022.105059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The present cross-sectional study aims to understand the fungal community composition of the nasopharyngeal region of SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals and how the infection influences the mycobiome therein. The infection significantly (p < 0.05) influenced the alpha diversity. Interestingly, a higher abundance of Cladosporium and Alternaria was noted in the infected individuals and inter-individual variation in mycobiome composition was well supported by beta dispersion analysis (p < 0.05). Moreover, decrease in Aspergillus abundance was observed in infected patients across the four age groups. This study provides insight into the alteration in mycobiome during the viral disease progression and demands continuous investigation to monitor fungal infections.
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Huang SF, Ying-Jung Wu A, Shin-Jung Lee S, Huang YS, Lee CY, Yang TL, Wang HW, Chen HJ, Chen YC, Ho TS, Kuo CF, Lin YT. COVID-19 associated mold infections: Review of COVID-19 associated pulmonary aspergillosis and mucormycosis. JOURNAL OF MICROBIOLOGY, IMMUNOLOGY, AND INFECTION = WEI MIAN YU GAN RAN ZA ZHI 2022:S1684-1182(22)00285-7. [PMID: 36586744 PMCID: PMC9751001 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmii.2022.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 12/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19-associated mold infection (CAMI) is defined as development of mold infections in COVID-19 patients. Co-pathogenesis of viral and fungal infections include the disruption of tissue barrier following SARS CoV-2 infection with the damage in the alveolar space, respiratory epithelium and endothelium injury and overwhelming inflammation and immune dysregulation during severe COVID-19. Other predisposing risk factors permissive to fungal infections during COVID-19 include the administration of immune modulators such as corticosteroids and IL-6 antagonist. COVID-19-associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA) and COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM) is increasingly reported during the COVID-19 pandemic. CAPA usually developed within the first month of COVID infection, and CAM frequently arose 10-15 days post diagnosis of COVID-19. Diagnosis is challenging and often indistinguishable during the cytokine storm in COVID-19, and several diagnostic criteria have been proposed. Development of CAPA and CAM is associated with a high mortality despiteappropriate anti-mold therapy. Both isavuconazole and amphotericin B can be used for treatment of CAPA and CAM; voriconazole is the primary agent for CAPA and posaconazole is an alternative for CAM. Aggressive surgery is recommended for CAM to improve patient survival. A high index of suspicion and timely and appropriate treatment is crucial to improve patient outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiang-Fen Huang
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan,School of Internal Medicine, National Yang Ming Chao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Alice Ying-Jung Wu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan,MacKay Medical College, New Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Susan Shin-Jung Lee
- School of Internal Medicine, National Yang Ming Chao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan,Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Shan Huang
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Yuan Lee
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan,Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan,School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan,M.Sc. Program in Tropical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Te-Liang Yang
- Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital Hsin-Chu Branch, Hsinchu, Taiwan,Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Children's Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Wei Wang
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Shin Kong Wu Ho- Su Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hung Jui Chen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Chi-Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yi Ching Chen
- Department of Pediatrics, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan,College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Tzong-Shiann Ho
- Department of Pediatrics, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, Tainan, Taiwan,Department of Pediatrics, Tainan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Feng Kuo
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, MacKay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan,MacKay Junior College of Medicine, Nursing, and Management, Taipei, Taiwan,Corresponding author
| | - Yi-Tsung Lin
- Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan,Institute of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, Taiwan,Corresponding author
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Sachan S, Suvirya S, Yadav K, Gupta P, Saraswat A, Verma P, Chandra U, Singh BP, Chaudhary SC, Dwivedi DK, Garg RK, Singhai A, Malhotra KP, Parihar A, Kumar S. Mucocutaneous manifestations of COVID-19-associated mucormycosis: A retrospective cross-sectional study. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol 2022:1-14. [PMID: 36688884 DOI: 10.25259/ijdvl_277_2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background Cutaneous mucormycosis has shown a significant upsurge during the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to the rapid progression and high mortality of cutaneous mucormycosis in this context, it is important to identify it early. However, very few studies report detailed clinical descriptions of cutaneous mucormycosis in COVID-19 patients. Objectives To describe mucocutaneous lesions of COVID-19-associated mucormycosis based on clinical morphology and attempt to correlate them with radiological changes. Methods A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care centre from 1st April to 31st July 2021. Eligibility criteria included hospitalised adult patients of COVID-19-associated mucormycosis with mucocutaneous lesions. Results All subjects were recently recovering COVID-19 patients diagnosed with cutaneous mucormycosis. One of fifty-three (2%) patients had primary cutaneous mucormycosis, and all of the rest had secondary cutaneous mucormycosis. Secondary cutaneous mucormycosis lesions presented as cutaneous-abscess in 25/52 (48%), nodulo-pustular lesions in 1/52 (2%), necrotic eschar in 1/52 (2%) and ulcero-necrotic in 1/52 (2%). Mucosal lesions were of three broad sub-types: ulcero-necrotic in 1/52 (2%), pustular in 2/52 (4%) and plaques in 1/52 (2%). Twenty out of fifty-two patients (38%) presented with simultaneous mucosal and cutaneous lesions belonging to the above categories. Magnetic resonance imaging of the face showed variable features of cutaneous and subcutaneous tissue involvement, viz. peripherally enhancing collection in the abscess group, "dot in circle sign" and heterogeneous contrast enhancement in the nodulo-pustular group; and fat stranding with infiltration of subcutaneous tissue in cases with necrotic eschar and ulcero-necrotic lesions. Limitations The morphological variety of cutaneous mucormycosis patients in a single-centre study like ours might not be very precise. Thus, there is a need to conduct multi-centric prospective studies with larger sample sizes in the future to substantiate our morphological and radiological findings. Conclusions COVID-19-associated mucormycosis patients in our study presented with a few specific types of mucocutaneous manifestations, with distinct magnetic resonance imaging findings. If corroborated by larger studies, these observations would be helpful in the early diagnosis of this serious illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonal Sachan
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, Hind Institute of Medical Sciences, Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Swastika Suvirya
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Krishna Yadav
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Prashant Gupta
- Department of Microbiology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Abir Saraswat
- Department of Dermatology, Indushree Skin Clinic, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Parul Verma
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Usha Chandra
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprosy, Lala Lajpat Rai Memorial Medical College, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Balendra Pratap Singh
- Department of Prosthodontics, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shyam Chand Chaudhary
- Department of Medicine, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Durgesh Kumar Dwivedi
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Ravindra Kumar Garg
- Department of Neurology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Atin Singhai
- Department of Pathology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Kiran Preet Malhotra
- Department of Pathology, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Anit Parihar
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Saurabh Kumar
- Department of Radiodiagnosis, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
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Parums DV. Editorial: The World Health Organization (WHO) Fungal Priority Pathogens List in Response to Emerging Fungal Pathogens During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Med Sci Monit 2022; 28:e939088. [PMID: 36453055 PMCID: PMC9724454 DOI: 10.12659/msm.939088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, increased resistance to antifungal drugs, and an increased number of immunocompromised patients have driven a recent global surge in pathogenic fungal infections, including aspergillosis, candidiasis, and mucormycosis. On 25 October 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) released a list of 19 fungal priority pathogens identified as having the greatest threat to public health. The WHO Fungal Priority Pathogens List represents the first global response to identify and prioritize fungal pathogens and their impact on global public health and to consider the unmet research and development needs. The WHO has grouped the priority fungal pathogens into those of critical, high, and medium priority. This Editorial aims to highlight the importance of identifying and prioritizing fungal pathogens and identifying emerging fungal pathogens and the global factors driving changing patterns of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinah V Parums
- Science Editor, Medical Science Monitor, International Scientific Information, Inc., Melville, NY, USA
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Shakrawal J, Sharma V, Goyal A, Kumar D, Meena S, Tiwari S, Jain V, Elhence P, Soni K, Choudhury B, Bhatnagar K, Garg MK, Misra S. Outcomes of transcutaneous retrobulbar Amphotericin B (TRAMB) as an adjuvant therapy for rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) following COVID-19. Int Ophthalmol 2022; 43:1919-1926. [DOI: 10.1007/s10792-022-02591-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Molecular diagnosis of rhino-orbital mucormycosis in a COVID-19 setting. Int Ophthalmol 2022; 43:1803-1810. [DOI: 10.1007/s10792-022-02577-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Wagner C, Griesel M, Mikolajewska A, Metzendorf MI, Fischer AL, Stegemann M, Spagl M, Nair AA, Daniel J, Fichtner F, Skoetz N. Systemic corticosteroids for the treatment of COVID-19: Equity-related analyses and update on evidence. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2022; 11:CD014963. [PMID: 36385229 PMCID: PMC9670242 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd014963.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Systemic corticosteroids are used to treat people with COVID-19 because they counter hyper-inflammation. Existing evidence syntheses suggest a slight benefit on mortality. Nonetheless, size of effect, optimal therapy regimen, and selection of patients who are likely to benefit most are factors that remain to be evaluated. OBJECTIVES To assess whether and at which doses systemic corticosteroids are effective and safe in the treatment of people with COVID-19, to explore equity-related aspects in subgroup analyses, and to keep up to date with the evolving evidence base using a living systematic review approach. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane COVID-19 Study Register (which includes PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL, ClinicalTrials.gov, WHO ICTRP, and medRxiv), Web of Science (Science Citation Index, Emerging Citation Index), and the WHO COVID-19 Global literature on coronavirus disease to identify completed and ongoing studies to 6 January 2022. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated systemic corticosteroids for people with COVID-19. We included any type or dose of systemic corticosteroids and the following comparisons: systemic corticosteroids plus standard care versus standard care, different types, doses and timings (early versus late) of corticosteroids. We excluded corticosteroids in combination with other active substances versus standard care, topical or inhaled corticosteroids, and corticosteroids for long-COVID treatment. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We followed standard Cochrane methodology. To assess the risk of bias in included studies, we used the Cochrane 'Risk of bias' 2 tool for RCTs. We rated the certainty of the evidence using the GRADE approach for the following outcomes: all-cause mortality up to 30 and 120 days, discharged alive (clinical improvement), new need for invasive mechanical ventilation or death (clinical worsening), serious adverse events, adverse events, hospital-acquired infections, and invasive fungal infections. MAIN RESULTS We included 16 RCTs in 9549 participants, of whom 8271 (87%) originated from high-income countries. A total of 4532 participants were randomised to corticosteroid arms and the majority received dexamethasone (n = 3766). These studies included participants mostly older than 50 years and male. We also identified 42 ongoing and 23 completed studies lacking published results or relevant information on the study design. Hospitalised individuals with a confirmed or suspected diagnosis of symptomatic COVID-19 Systemic corticosteroids plus standard care versus standard care plus/minus placebo We included 11 RCTs (8019 participants), one of which did not report any of our pre-specified outcomes and thus our analyses included outcome data from 10 studies. Systemic corticosteroids plus standard care compared to standard care probably reduce all-cause mortality (up to 30 days) slightly (risk ratio (RR) 0.90, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.84 to 0.97; 7898 participants; estimated absolute effect: 274 deaths per 1000 people not receiving systemic corticosteroids compared to 246 deaths per 1000 people receiving the intervention (95% CI 230 to 265 per 1000 people); moderate-certainty evidence). The evidence is very uncertain about the effect on all-cause mortality (up to 120 days) (RR 0.74, 95% CI 0.23 to 2.34; 485 participants). The chance of clinical improvement (discharged alive at day 28) may slightly increase (RR 1.07, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.11; 6786 participants; low-certainty evidence) while the risk of clinical worsening (new need for invasive mechanical ventilation or death) may slightly decrease (RR 0.92, 95% CI 0.84 to 1.01; 5586 participants; low-certainty evidence). For serious adverse events (two RCTs, 678 participants), adverse events (three RCTs, 447 participants), hospital-acquired infections (four RCTs, 598 participants), and invasive fungal infections (one study, 64 participants), we did not perform any analyses beyond the presentation of descriptive statistics due to very low-certainty evidence (high risk of bias, heterogeneous definitions, and underreporting). Different types, dosages or timing of systemic corticosteroids We identified one RCT (86 participants) comparing methylprednisolone to dexamethasone, thus the evidence is very uncertain about the effect of methylprednisolone on all-cause mortality (up to 30 days) (RR 0.51, 95% CI 0.24 to 1.07; 86 participants). None of the other outcomes of interest were reported in this study. We included four RCTs (1383 participants) comparing high-dose dexamethasone (12 mg or higher) to low-dose dexamethasone (6 mg to 8 mg). High-dose dexamethasone compared to low-dose dexamethasone may reduce all-cause mortality (up to 30 days) (RR 0.87, 95% CI 0.73 to 1.04; 1269 participants; low-certainty evidence), but the evidence is very uncertain about the effect of high-dose dexamethasone on all-cause mortality (up to 120 days) (RR 0.93, 95% CI 0.79 to 1.08; 1383 participants) and it may have little or no impact on clinical improvement (discharged alive at 28 days) (RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.89 to 1.09; 200 participants; low-certainty evidence). Studies did not report data on clinical worsening (new need for invasive mechanical ventilation or death). For serious adverse events, adverse events, hospital-acquired infections, and invasive fungal infections, we did not perform analyses beyond the presentation of descriptive statistics due to very low-certainty evidence. We could not identify studies for comparisons of different timing and systemic corticosteroids versus other active substances. Equity-related subgroup analyses We conducted the following subgroup analyses to explore equity-related factors: sex, age (< 70 years; ≥ 70 years), ethnicity (Black, Asian or other versus White versus unknown) and place of residence (high-income versus low- and middle-income countries). Except for age and ethnicity, no evidence for differences could be identified. For all-cause mortality up to 30 days, participants younger than 70 years seemed to benefit from systemic corticosteroids in comparison to those aged 70 years and older. The few participants from a Black, Asian, or other minority ethnic group showed a larger estimated effect than the many White participants. Outpatients with asymptomatic or mild disease There are no studies published in populations with asymptomatic infection or mild disease. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Systemic corticosteroids probably slightly reduce all-cause mortality up to 30 days in people hospitalised because of symptomatic COVID-19, while the evidence is very uncertain about the effect on all-cause mortality up to 120 days. For younger people (under 70 years of age) there was a potential advantage, as well as for Black, Asian, or people of a minority ethnic group; further subgroup analyses showed no relevant effects. Evidence related to the most effective type, dose, or timing of systemic corticosteroids remains immature. Currently, there is no evidence on asymptomatic or mild disease (non-hospitalised participants). Due to the low to very low certainty of the current evidence, we cannot assess safety adequately to rule out harmful effects of the treatment, therefore there is an urgent need for good-quality safety data. Findings of equity-related subgroup analyses should be interpreted with caution because of their explorative nature, low precision, and missing data. We identified 42 ongoing and 23 completed studies lacking published results or relevant information on the study design, suggesting there may be possible changes of the effect estimates and certainty of the evidence in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina Wagner
- Cochrane Haematology, Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Mirko Griesel
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Agata Mikolajewska
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Respiratory Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maria-Inti Metzendorf
- Cochrane Metabolic and Endocrine Disorders Group, Institute of General Practice, Medical Faculty of the Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Anna-Lena Fischer
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Miriam Stegemann
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Respiratory Medicine, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Manuel Spagl
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Avinash Anil Nair
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - Jefferson Daniel
- Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - Falk Fichtner
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, University of Leipzig Medical Center, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Nicole Skoetz
- Cochrane Haematology, Department I of Internal Medicine, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Duesseldorf, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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Anand T, Mukherjee A, Satija A, Velamuri PS, Singh KJ, Das M, Josten K, Yadav PD, Sahay RR, Keche AY, Nagarkar NM, Gupta P, Himanshu D, Mistry SN, Patel JD, Rao P, Rohatgi S, Ghosh S, Hazra A, Kindo AJ, Annamalai R, Rudramurthy SM, Singh MP, Shameem M, Fatima N, Khambholja JR, Parikh S, Madkaikar M, Pradhan VD, Kataria S, Sharma P, Panda S, Shete AM, Majumdar T, Abraham P, Bhargava A, Mehata R, Arora RD, Tigga R, Banerjee G, Sonkar V, Malhotra HS, Kumar N, Patil R, Raut CG, Bhattacharyya K, Arthur P, Somu L, Srikanth P, Panda NK, Sharma D, Hasan W, Ahmed A, Bathla M, Solanki S, Doshi H, Kanani Y, Patel N, Shah Z, Tembhurne AK, Rajguru C, Sankhe LR, Chavan SS, Yadav RM, Deswal V, Kumar K. A case control investigation of COVID-19 associated mucormycosis in India. BMC Infect Dis 2022; 22:856. [PMID: 36384482 PMCID: PMC9667849 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-022-07844-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Increased occurrence of mucormycosis during the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic in early 2021 in India prompted us to undertake a multi-site case–control investigation. The objectives were to examine the monthly trend of COVID-19 Associated Mucormycosis (CAM) cases among in-patients and to identify factors associated with development of CAM. Methods Eleven study sites were involved across India; archived records since 1st January 2021 till 30th September 2021 were used for trend analysis. The cases and controls were enrolled during 15th June 2021 to 30th September 2021. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire. Among 1211 enrolled participants, 336 were CAM cases and 875 were COVID-19 positive non-mucormycosis controls. Results CAM-case admissions reached their peak in May 2021 like a satellite epidemic after a month of in-patient admission peak recorded due to COVID-19. The odds of developing CAM increased with the history of working in a dusty environment (adjusted odds ratio; aOR 3.24, 95% CI 1.34, 7.82), diabetes mellitus (aOR: 31.83, 95% CI 13.96, 72.63), longer duration of hospital stay (aOR: 1.06, 95% CI 1.02, 1.11) and use of methylprednisolone (aOR: 2.71, 95% CI 1.37, 5.37) following adjustment for age, gender, occupation, education, type of houses used for living, requirement of ventilatory support and route of steroid administration. Higher proportion of CAM cases required supplemental oxygen compared to the controls; use of non-rebreather mask (NRBM) was associated as a protective factor against mucormycosis compared to face masks (aOR: 0.18, 95% CI 0.08, 0.41). Genomic sequencing of archived respiratory samples revealed similar occurrences of Delta and Delta derivates of SARS-CoV-2 infection in both cases and controls. Conclusions Appropriate management of hyperglycemia, judicious use of steroids and use of NRBM during oxygen supplementation among COVID-19 patients have the potential to reduce the risk of occurrence of mucormycosis. Avoiding exposure to dusty environment would add to such prevention efforts. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12879-022-07844-y.
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Dandu H, Kumar M, Malhotra HS, Kumar N, Kumar N, Gupta P, Puri B, Yadav G. T-cell dysfunction as a potential contributing factor in post-COVID-19 mucormycosis. Mycoses 2022; 66:202-210. [PMID: 36305225 PMCID: PMC9874625 DOI: 10.1111/myc.13542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Revised: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The second wave of COVID-19 in India was followed by large number of mucormycosis cases. Indiscriminate use of immunosuppressive drugs, underlying diseases such as diabetes, cancers, or autoimmune diseases was thought to be the cause. However, the mortality was not as high as that seen in non-COVID mucormycosis. OBJECTIVE To study the detailed characteristics of T-cells for evaluating the underlying differences in the T-cell immune dysfunction in post-COVID and non-COVID mucor patients. MATERIAL AND METHOD The study included histopathologically confirmed cases of mucor (13 post-COVID, 13 non-COVID) and 15 healthy individuals (HI). Expression of T-cell activation (CD44, HLADR, CD69, CD38) and exhaustion (CTLA, PD-1, LAG-3 and TIM-3) markers was evaluated by flow cytometry. RESULTS All cases showed significant depletion of T-cells compared to HI. Both post-COVID and non-COVID groups showed increased activation and exhaustion as compared to HI. Non-COVID mucor group showed significant activation of CD4+ T cells for HLADR and CD38 (p = .025, p = .054) and marked T-cell exhaustion in form of expression of LAG-3 on both CD4+ T and CD8+ T cells in comparison with post-COVID patients (p = .011, p = .036). Additionally, co-expression of PD-1 & LAG-3 and LAG-3 & TIM-3 on CD8+ T cells was statistically significant in non-COVID mucor patients (p = .016, p = .027). CONCLUSION Immunosuppression in non-COVID mucor showed pronounced exhaustion of T-cells in comparison to post-COVID mucor cases implicating T-cell immune dysfunction is much more severe in non-COVID mucor which are in a state of continuous activation followed by extreme exhaustion leading to poorer outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Himanshu Dandu
- Department of Internal MedicineKing George's Medical UniversityLucknowIndia
| | - Manish Kumar
- Department of PathologyKing George's Medical UniversityLucknowIndia
| | | | - Naveen Kumar
- Department of Internal MedicineKing George's Medical UniversityLucknowIndia
| | - Neeraj Kumar
- Department of NeurologyKing George's Medical UniversityLucknowIndia
| | - Prashant Gupta
- Department of MicrobiologyKing George's Medical UniversityLucknowIndia
| | - Bipin Puri
- Department of Pediatric SurgeryKing George's Medical UniversityLucknowIndia
| | - Geeta Yadav
- Department of PathologyKing George's Medical UniversityLucknowIndia
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Acosta-España JD, Voigt K. An old confusion: Entomophthoromycosis versus mucormycosis and their main differences. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:1035100. [PMID: 36406416 PMCID: PMC9670544 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.1035100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Fungal diseases were underestimated for many years. And the global burden of fungal infections is substantial and has increased in recent years. Invasive fungal infections have been linked to several risk factors in humans which basically depend on the individual homeostasis of the patients. However, many fungi can infect even apparently healthy people. Knowledge of these pathogens is critical in reducing or stopping morbidity and/or mortality statistics due to fungal pathogens. Successful therapeutic strategies rely on rapid diagnosis of the causative fungal agent and the underlying disease. However, the terminology of the diseases was updated to existing phylogenetic classifications and led to confusion in the definition of mucormycosis, conidiobolomycosis, and basidiobolomycosis, which were previously grouped under the now-uncommon term zygomycosis. Therefore, the ecological, taxonomic, clinical, and diagnostic differences are addressed to optimize the understanding and definition of these diseases. The term "coenocytic hyphomycosis" is proposed to summarize all fungal infections caused by Mucorales and species of Basidiobolus and Conidiobolus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime David Acosta-España
- Jena Microbial Resource Collection, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany,Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany,Postgraduate Program in Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Kerstin Voigt
- Jena Microbial Resource Collection, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany,Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany,*Correspondence: Kerstin Voigt,
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Shah NN, Khan Z, Ahad H, Elderdery AY, Alomary MN, Atwah B, Alhindi Z, Alsugoor MH, Elkhalifa AME, Nabi S, Bashir SM, Yaqub T, Rather GA, Ansari MA. Mucormycosis an added burden to Covid-19 Patients: An in-depth systematic review. J Infect Public Health 2022; 15:1299-1314. [PMID: 36279686 PMCID: PMC9562622 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2022.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
As of 25th July, 2022, global Disease burden of 575,430,244 confirmed cases and over 6,403,511 deaths have been attributed to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Co-infections/secondary infections continue to plague patients around the world as result of the co-morbidities like diabetes mellitus, biochemical changes caused by Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) especially significant elevation in free iron levels, immune suppression caused by SARS-CoV-2, and indiscriminate use of systemic corticosteroids for the treatment of severe COVID-19 disease. In such circumstances, opportunistic fungal infections pose significant challenge for COVID-19 disease therapy in patients with other co-morbidities. Although COVID-19-associated Mucormycosis (CAM) has been widely recognized, currently extensive research is being conducted on mucormycosis. It has been widely agreed that patients undergoing corticosteroid therapy are highly susceptible for CAM, henceforth high index of screening and intensive care and management is need of an hour in order to have favorable outcomes in these patients. Diagnosis in such cases is often delayed and eventually the disease progresses quickly which poses added burden to clinician and increases patient load in critical care units of hospitals. A vast perusal of literature indicated that patients with diabetes mellitus and those with other co-morbidities might be highly vulnerable to develop mucormycosis. In the present work, the case series of three patients presented at Chest Disease Hospital Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir infected with CAM has been described with their epidemiological data in supplementary section. All these cases were found to be affected with co-morbidity of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and were under corticosteroid therapy. Furthermore, given the significant death rate linked with mucormycosis and the growing understanding of the diseases significance, systematic review of the literature on CAM has been discussed and we have attempted to discuss emerging CAM and related aspects of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naveed Nazir Shah
- Department of Chest Medicine, Govt. Medical College Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Zaid Khan
- Department of Chest Medicine, Govt. Medical College Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Hashim Ahad
- Government Dental College, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Abozer Y Elderdery
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jouf University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad N Alomary
- National Centre for Biotechnology, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Riyadh 11442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Banan Atwah
- Laboratory Medicine Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zain Alhindi
- Laboratory Medicine Department, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahdi H Alsugoor
- Department of Emergency Medical Services, faculty of Health Sciences, AlQunfudah, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 21912, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed M E Elkhalifa
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Saudi Electronic University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia & Department of Haematology, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of El Imam El Mahdi, Kosti 1158, Sudan
| | - Showket Nabi
- Large Animal Diagnostic Laboratory, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Ethics & Jurisprudence, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Shuhama Alusteng, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir 190006, India
| | - Showkeen Muzamil Bashir
- Molecular biology Laboratory, Division of Veterinary Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences and Animal Husbandry, Shuhama Alusteng, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir 190006, India.
| | - Tahir Yaqub
- Institute of Microbiology University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Gulzar Ahmed Rather
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Sathyabama Institute of Science & Technology, Deemed to be University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mohammad Azam Ansari
- Department of Epidemic Disease Research, Institute for Research and Medical Consultations (IRMC), Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam 31441, Saudi Arabia.
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Ryu BU, Laylani NAR, Davila-Siliezar P, Lee AG. Rhino-orbital mucormycosis. Curr Opin Ophthalmol 2022; 33:501-506. [PMID: 36066372 DOI: 10.1097/icu.0000000000000892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The current article will update and review the clinical and radiological manifestations and management of rhino-orbital mucormycosis (ROM). RECENT FINDINGS There has been an increase in cases of ROM worldwide, especially in India. Immunosuppression (especially diabetes mellitus) is a known predisposing risk factor for ROM. Delayed diagnosis and treatment of ROM can be vision or life-threatening. This article reviews the clinical and radiologic features, treatment, and prognosis of ROM with special emphasis on new and emerging therapies. SUMMARY ROM is an angioinvasive fungal infection that affects the sinuses and orbits and may present to ophthalmologists. Clinicians should have a high index of suspicion for ROM, especially in patients with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus or other immunosuppression. Corticosteroid treatment (including the recent COVID-19 pandemic) may be a predisposing risk factor for ROM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byoung U Ryu
- McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas
| | | | - Pamela Davila-Siliezar
- Department of Ophthalmology, Blanton Eye Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
| | - Andrew G Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Blanton Eye Institute, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas
- Departments of Ophthalmology, Neurology, and Neurosurgery, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
- University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas
- Texas A and M College of Medicine, Bryan, Texas
- Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
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Mokhtar EA, Haidry N, . K, Verma S, Akbar S. Mandibular Mucormycosis: A Report of Four Cases and a Discussion on Their Management. Cureus 2022; 14:e30301. [DOI: 10.7759/cureus.30301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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Pathogenesis and Pathology of COVID-Associated Mucormycosis: What Is New and Why. CURRENT FUNGAL INFECTION REPORTS 2022; 16:206-220. [PMID: 36193101 PMCID: PMC9520103 DOI: 10.1007/s12281-022-00443-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review There is global increase in the incidence of mucormycosis. However, a sudden increase in the COVID-associated mucormycosis (CAM) was noted, particularly in India, during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. The interplay of factors involved in the pathogenesis is complex. In this review, the influence of pre-existing disease, exaggerated risk factors, altered milieu due to COVID-19 itself and the consequences of its treatment on the host pathogen interactions leading to the disease and morphology of the fungus will be highlighted. Recent Findings Hyperglycemia, acidosis, available free iron, lowered host defenses, and the fungal virulence factors promote the growth of Mucorales. There is a high background prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) in India. Uncontrolled or undiagnosed DM, COVID-19 itself, and inappropriate administration of corticosteroids in high doses and for prolonged periods result in hyperglycemia. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and metabolic acidosis due to hypoxia or renal failure contribute to acidic pH and dissociate bound iron from serum proteins. The host defenses are lowered due to COVID-19-induced immune dysregulation, hyperglycemia itself, and administration of corticosteroids and immune suppressants for the treatment of COVID-19. The altered metabolic milieu in the local microenvironment of nose and paranasal sinuses (PNS) promotes specific interaction of glucose-regulated protein-78 (GRP-78) on host cells with spore coat protein homologue (CotH 3) on Mucorales resulting in rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) as the predominant clinical form in CAM. The pathology is extensive soft tissue involvement with angioinvasion and perineural invasion. Melanized hyphae and sporangia were seen on histopathology, which is unique to CAM. While many factors favor the growth of Mucorales in CAM, hyperglycemia, hyperferritinemia, and administration of hyperbaric oxygen result in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inadequate humidification results in dehydration. Melanization is possibly the adaptive and protective mechanism of Mucorales to escape the unfavorable conditions due to the treatment of COVID-19. Summary High background prevalence of DM, inappropriate administration of corticosteroids and immune dysregulation due to COVID-19 favor the growth of Mucorales in CAM. Melanization of Mucorales hyphae and sporangia on histopathology probably represent adaptive and protective mechanism due to the treatment with hyperbaric oxygen with inadequate humidification as well as the metabolic alterations.
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Qin Z, Bouteau A, Herbst C, Igyártó BZ. Pre-exposure to mRNA-LNP inhibits adaptive immune responses and alters innate immune fitness in an inheritable fashion. PLoS Pathog 2022; 18:e1010830. [PMID: 36054264 PMCID: PMC9477420 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hundreds of millions of SARS-CoV-2 mRNA-LNP vaccine doses have already been administered to humans. However, we lack a comprehensive understanding of the immune effects of this platform. The mRNA-LNP-based SARS-CoV-2 vaccine is highly inflammatory, and its synthetic ionizable lipid component responsible for the induction of inflammation has a long in vivo half-life. Since chronic inflammation can lead to immune exhaustion and non-responsiveness, we sought to determine the effects of pre-exposure to the mRNA-LNP on adaptive immune responses and innate immune fitness. We found that pre-exposure to mRNA-LNPs or LNP alone led to long-term inhibition of the adaptive immune response, which could be overcome using standard adjuvants. On the other hand, we report that after pre-exposure to mRNA-LNPs, the resistance of mice to heterologous infections with influenza virus increased while resistance to Candida albicans decreased. The diminished resistance to Candida albicans correlated with a general decrease in blood neutrophil percentages. Interestingly, mice pre-exposed to the mRNA-LNP platform can pass down the acquired immune traits to their offspring, providing better protection against influenza. In summary, the mRNA-LNP vaccine platform induces long-term unexpected immunological changes affecting both adaptive immune responses and heterologous protection against infections. Thus, our studies highlight the need for more research to determine this platform's true impact on human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Qin
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Aurélie Bouteau
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Christopher Herbst
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Botond Z. Igyártó
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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Atypical presentations of fungal osteomyelitis during post COVID-19 outbreak – Case series. JOURNAL OF ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGERY, MEDICINE, AND PATHOLOGY 2022; 34:622-627. [PMID: 35402152 PMCID: PMC8977445 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajoms.2022.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Mucormycosis and Aspergillosis are opportunistic fungal infections causing significant morbidity and mortality. Post the outbreak of COVID-19, these fungal osteomyelitis have seen a global rise with few atypical presentations noted. Case report Current case series reports three such atypical presentations of fungal osteomyelitis including mandibular fungal osteomyelitis in two patients, fungal osteomyelitis mimicking space infection in a middle aged male, and suspected mixed fungal osteomyelitis involving maxillary sinus. Aggressive surgical debridement was indicated along with institution of antifungal therapy (Liposomal Amphotericin B, and Posaconazole). The fungal osteomyelitis was successfully treated with surgical and medical management with no recurrence. Discussion The injudicious use of corticosteroids in COVID-19 patients along with their immunocompromised status increases their susceptibility to opportunistic fungal osteomyelitis. Prompt and aggressive surgical intervention along with antifungal therapy is important after diagnosing fungal osteomyelitis, as a delay could increase the mortality rate considerably.
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Abstract
The traditional complications of diabetes mellitus are well known and continue to pose a considerable burden on millions of people living with diabetes mellitus. However, advances in the management of diabetes mellitus and, consequently, longer life expectancies, have resulted in the emergence of evidence of the existence of a different set of lesser-acknowledged diabetes mellitus complications. With declining mortality from vascular disease, which once accounted for more than 50% of deaths amongst people with diabetes mellitus, cancer and dementia now comprise the leading causes of death in people with diabetes mellitus in some countries or regions. Additionally, studies have demonstrated notable links between diabetes mellitus and a broad range of comorbidities, including cognitive decline, functional disability, affective disorders, obstructive sleep apnoea and liver disease, and have refined our understanding of the association between diabetes mellitus and infection. However, no published review currently synthesizes this evidence to provide an in-depth discussion of the burden and risks of these emerging complications. This Review summarizes information from systematic reviews and major cohort studies regarding emerging complications of type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus to identify and quantify associations, highlight gaps and discrepancies in the evidence, and consider implications for the future management of diabetes mellitus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dunya Tomic
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jonathan E Shaw
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Dianna J Magliano
- Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.
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Elevated Myl9 reflects the Myl9-containing microthrombi in SARS-CoV-2-induced lung exudative vasculitis and predicts COVID-19 severity. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2203437119. [PMID: 35895716 PMCID: PMC9388124 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2203437119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Elucidation of the pathology triggered by SARS-CoV-2 infection is essential to control the pandemic. We found that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) accumulates in the pulmonary vessels, causing exudative vasculitis accompanied by the emergence of noncanonical monocytes that specifically produce a platelet activating factor, thrombospondin-1, and the formation of myosin light chain 9 (Myl9)–containing microthrombi in the lungs of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients with fatal disease. More interestingly, we demonstrate that SARS-CoV-2–induced platelet activation causes an increase in the plasma Myl9 level, which is closely correlated with clinical severity. The measurement of plasma Myl9 with other markers allowed us to diagnose the severity of the disease more accurately, which is crucial for providing appropriate medical care for COVID-19 patients. The mortality of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is strongly correlated with pulmonary vascular pathology accompanied by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection–triggered immune dysregulation and aberrant activation of platelets. We combined histological analyses using field emission scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analyses of the lungs from autopsy samples and single-cell RNA sequencing of peripheral blood mononuclear cells to investigate the pathogenesis of vasculitis and immunothrombosis in COVID-19. We found that SARS-CoV-2 accumulated in the pulmonary vessels, causing exudative vasculitis accompanied by the emergence of thrombospondin-1–expressing noncanonical monocytes and the formation of myosin light chain 9 (Myl9)–containing microthrombi in the lung of COVID-19 patients with fatal disease. The amount of plasma Myl9 in COVID-19 was correlated with the clinical severity, and measuring plasma Myl9 together with other markers allowed us to predict the severity of the disease more accurately. This study provides detailed insight into the pathogenesis of vasculitis and immunothrombosis, which may lead to optimal medical treatment for COVID-19.
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Mohapatra S, Barik MR, Rath S, Sharma S, Mohapatra A, Behera S, Acharya S, Pattjoshi DR, Padhi RK, Behera HS. Diagnostic Performance and Clinical Utility of Conventional PCR Assay in Early Diagnosis of COVID-19 Associated Rhino-Orbito-Cerebral Mucormycosis. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:jof8080844. [PMID: 36012832 PMCID: PMC9409716 DOI: 10.3390/jof8080844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Early diagnosis and treatment of rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) are crucial. Potassium hydroxide with Calcofluorwhite (KOH + CFW) smears can demonstrate the fungal hyphae, but mixed infections caused by both mucorales and non-mucorales pose a diagnostic challenge. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) can detect mixed infections and differentiate mucorales from non-mucorales. This study aimed to evaluate the utility of a single reaction PCR in the diagnosis of ROCM and the efficacy of nasal biopsy and endonasal swab in the detection of fungus. Sixty-six clinical samples were collected from 33 patients and were subjected to KOH + CFW smear, culture and PCR. PCR was performed using pan-fungal primers targeting the 28S large subunit rRNA gene, and the amplified products were further sequenced to identify the fungi. KOH + CFW smear, culture and PCR detected mucorales in 54.6%, 27.3% and 63.6% patients, respectively. PCR detected mixed infection in 51.5% patients compared to 9.1% by KOH + CFW smear. PCR detected fungus in 90% of nasal biopsies and 77.8% of endonasal swabs. Rhizopus spp. was the most common fungi identified in 43.2% of PCR-positive samples. PCR is effective in detecting mixed infection and in the diagnosis of ROCM. Nasal biopsies had better fungal detection rates than endonasal swabs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samir Mohapatra
- Department of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Mithu Tulsi Chanrai Campus, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Manas Ranjan Barik
- Ocular Microbiology Service, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Mithu Tulsi Chanrai Campus, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Suryasnata Rath
- Department of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Service, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Mithu Tulsi Chanrai Campus, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
| | - Savitri Sharma
- Jhaveri Microbiology Centre, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Kallam Anji Reddy Campus, Hyderabad 500034, Telangana, India
| | - Archisman Mohapatra
- Department of Biostatistics, Generating Research Insights for Development (GRID) Council, Noida 201307, Delhi NCR, India
| | | | - Souvagini Acharya
- Department of Ear, Nose and Throat, VSSIMSAR, Burla 768017, Odisha, India
| | - Dipti Ranjan Pattjoshi
- Department of Ear, Nose and Throat, SCB Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack 753007, Odisha, India
| | - Rajesh Kumar Padhi
- Department of Ear, Nose and Throat, Sparsh Hospitals Pvt Ltd., Bhubaneswar 751007, Odisha, India
| | - Himansu Sekhar Behera
- Ocular Microbiology Service, L V Prasad Eye Institute, Mithu Tulsi Chanrai Campus, Bhubaneswar 751024, Odisha, India
- Correspondence:
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Mohan DK, Nandhini K, Raavi V, Perumal V. Impact of X-radiation in the management of COVID-19 disease. World J Radiol 2022; 14:219-228. [PMID: 36160628 PMCID: PMC9350611 DOI: 10.4329/wjr.v14.i7.219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronaviruses are a diverse group of viruses that infect both animals and humans. Even though the existence of coronavirus and its infection to humans is not new, the 2019-novel coronavirus (nCoV) caused a major burden to individuals and society i.e., anxiety, fear of infection, extreme competition for hospitalization, and more importantly financial liability. The nCoV infection/disease diagnosis was based on non-specific signs and symptoms, biochemical parameters, detection of the virus using reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and X-ray-based imaging. This review focuses on the consolidation of potentials of X-ray-based imaging modality [chest-X radiography (CXR) and chest computed tomography (CT)] and low-dose radiation therapy (LDRT) for screening, severity, and management of COVID-19 disease. Reported studies suggest that CXR contributed significantly toward initial rapid screening/diagnosis and CT- imaging to monitor the disease severity. The chest CT has high sensitivity up to 98% and low specificity for diagnosis and severity of COVID-19 disease compared to RT-PCR. Similarly, LDRT compliments drug therapy in the early recovery/Less hospital stays by maintaining the physiological parameters better than the drug therapy alone. All the results undoubtedly demonstrated the evidence that X-ray-based technology continues to evolve and play a significant role in human health care even during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya T A
- Department of Human Genetics, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (Deemed to be University), Porur, Chennai 600 116, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Divya K Mohan
- Department of Human Genetics, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (Deemed to be University), Porur, Chennai 600 116, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - K Nandhini
- Department of Human Genetics, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (Deemed to be University), Porur, Chennai 600 116, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Venkateswarlu Raavi
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics, Sri Devaraj Urs Academy of Higher Education and Research (Deemed to be University), Tamaka, Kolar 563 103, Karnataka, India
| | - Venkatachalam Perumal
- Department of Human Genetics, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (Deemed to be University), Porur, Chennai 600 116, Tamil Nadu, India
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Niyazi D, Toncheva B, Tonchev T, Dzhenkov D, Kalchev K, Stoeva T. First report of rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis after COVID-19 infection in Bulgaria. Future Microbiol 2022; 17:1107-1113. [PMID: 35899489 PMCID: PMC9332908 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2022-0030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Mucormycosis is a relatively rare infection but with a high mortality rate due to the difficult and time-consuming diagnostic and therapeutic process. The authors present the first case of rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis, histologically and microbiologically proven, in a patient after COVID-19 infection in Bulgaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denis Niyazi
- Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology, University Hospital 'St. Marina', Varna, Bulgaria.,Medical University, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Borislava Toncheva
- Maxillofacial Surgery Clinic, University Hospital 'St. Marina', Varna, Bulgaria.,Medical University, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Tsvetan Tonchev
- Maxillofacial Surgery Clinic, University Hospital 'St. Marina', Varna, Bulgaria.,Medical University, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Deyan Dzhenkov
- General & clinical pathology clinic, University Hospital 'St. Marina', Varna, Bulgaria.,Medical University, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Kalin Kalchev
- General & clinical pathology clinic, University Hospital 'St. Marina', Varna, Bulgaria.,Medical University, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Temenuga Stoeva
- Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology, University Hospital 'St. Marina', Varna, Bulgaria.,Medical University, Varna, Bulgaria
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Acosta-España JD, Voigt K. Mini Review: Risk Assessment, Clinical Manifestation, Prediction, and Prognosis of Mucormycosis: Implications for Pathogen- and Human-Derived Biomarkers. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:895989. [PMID: 35794908 PMCID: PMC9251460 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.895989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Mucormycosis is a fungal disease caused by members of the fungal order Mucorales, which are abundantly found in terrestrial environments. The fungi propagate clonally via mitospores, which are transmitted to humans through the air and cause superficial or invasive infections. The disease has emerged in recent years and coincides generally with immunosuppression on the patient side. Mucormycosis is still rarely recognized in the clinical because of its unspecific symptoms which often triggers misdiagnosis with bacterial or viral infections leading to prolonged therapeutic cycles and loss of valuable time to manage mucormycosis properly. Infected patients develop various clinical forms, most notably ranging from rhinocerebral via pulmonary to gastrointestinal forms. Traditional diagnosis is based on culture and histopathologic examinations of the affected tissue. But, the achievement of a precise result is time-consuming, labor-intensive, requires mycological expertise and the finding appears often too late. A rapid and precise diagnosis is mandatory because symptoms are non-specific and the disease is rapidly progressing with often fatal outcome. Mucormycosis was increasingly associated with other infections and underlying conditions and risk factors causing comorbidities, which are difficult to successfully manage. This mini-review summarizes the current knowledge on the epidemiology and causative agents of mucormycosis, transmission, risk factors, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and highlights the lack of appropriate biomarkers on the pathogen and the host sides for rapid pathogen and host susceptibility detection, respectively. Fungal antigens and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in human host genes are useful for the assessment of susceptibility. This mini-review addresses possibilities for early prediction of susceptibility to mucormycosis based on forecasting of the risk of infection with fungal pathogens other than Mucorales. The topic of early prediction and diagnosis of mucormycosis represents a current research gap and highlights the importance of potential future developments in the area of risk assessment, susceptibility prognosis in conjunction with early diagnosis to reduce mortality in patients suffering from mucormycosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime David Acosta-España
- Jena Microbial Resource Collection, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany,Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany,Department of Medical Microbiology, Hospital Vozandes Quito, Quito, Ecuador,School of Medicine, Universidad de las Américas, Quito, Ecuador
| | - Kerstin Voigt
- Jena Microbial Resource Collection, Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology – Hans Knöll Institute, Jena, Germany,Institute of Microbiology, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, Germany,*Correspondence: Kerstin Voigt,
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