Post-Covid-19 Rhino-Cerebral Mucormycosis: an Observational Study During the Second Wave.

Mucormycosis is one of the most lethal and rapidly spreading fungal infection which is caused by fungus of the order . The swiftness of spreading and high mortality rate that characterize mucormycosis cases added more burden to the enormous challenge brought by the Covid-19 pandemic globally. The aim of this article is to identify and discuss mucormycosis and review the literature related to its diagnosis and management. A total of 15 mucormycosis cases with a history of Covid-19 infection were identified in the Department of Dentistry of Shri B M Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Centre BLDE (Deemed to be University), Vijayapura, India. The duration of the study was between April 1st and mid-September 2021. Nasal swab and tissue samples from oral and maxillofacial region were collected. Blood investigations, RT-PCR and HbA1c tests and radiography revealed changes in the trabecular pattern and bone loss associated with periodontal inflammation. Mucormycosis is a life-threatening infection. Hence, dental and other clinical professionals must be aware of this possible fatal complication, so as to avoid an unfavorable outcome in clinical practice.