Fatal rhinocerebral mucormycosis and diabetic ketoacidosis.

The typical features of a fulminating rhinocerebral infection by the fungus Rhizopus in a patient with diabetic ketoacidosis are described. The clinical presentation was characterized by an infection of the face, followed by rapid bilateral visual loss and massive cerebral infarction due to extensive vascular involvement. Early diagnosis is a prerequisite for successful treatment, which consists of control of the underlying disease, surgical debridement and systemic antifungal therapy.