COVID-19 associated mucormycosis in Pakistan: Adding fuel to the fire?
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61529/idjp.v34i2.372Abstract
Background: The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has introduced several public health challenges, including an increase in fungal infections. COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM) has resulted in rising morbidity and mortality worldwide. This study aims to assess the demographics, associated risk factors, outcomes, and frequency of CAM.
Material and Methods: This retrospective observational study was conducted from June 1, 2021, to June 30, 2023, in the Histopathology and Microbiology section of the Diagnostic and Research Laboratory, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Hyderabad. Data from 102 suspected mucormycosis cases were analyzed for demographics, clinical history, vaccination status, radiological findings, and outcomes. Fisher’s exact test was used to assess risk factors and outcomes in COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients, with significance set at p<0.05.
Results: Among the 102 samples analyzed for suspected mucormycosis, 35 (34.3%) were confirmed as proven cases. Of these, 22 (62.8%) had a history of COVID-19. 90.9% were male, 54.5% had diabetes, 22.7% were receiving chronic steroid treatment, and 10 (28.5%) patients died, primarily due to rhino cerebral involvement (2/10), demonstrating a high mortality rate in patients with CAM. Additionally, eight patients with CAM had received a single dose of the vaccine. The rate of CAM was more in unvaccinated population.
Conclusion: This study underscores mucormycosis as a growing post-COVID-19 threat, with high CAM fatality emphasizing the need for early diagnosis and strong healthcare systems. Integrating findings into the national database is vital to assess fungal infection prevalence in Pakistan.
Keywords: COVID-19, COVID-19 associated mucormycosis, Mucorales, COVID-19 vaccine
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