Review Of Literature : Covid 19 Outbreaks Association With Mucormycosis In India & Worldwide

Abstract

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‑19) Caused An Unprecedented Global Health Crisis And Was Associated With Multiple Secondary Infections, Among Which Mucormycosis Emerged As One Of The Most Severe Opportunistic Fungal Diseases. During The Second Wave Of The Pandemic, Especially In India, A Dramatic Rise In COVID‑19 Associated Mucormycosis (CAM) Cases Was Reported. CAM Predominantly Affected Patients With Uncontrolled Diabetes Mellitus, Prolonged Corticosteroid Therapy, Immune Dysregulation, Hypoxia, And Prolonged Hospitalization. Rhino‑orbito‑cerebral Mucormycosis Was The Most Common Presentation In India, Whereas Pulmonary Mucormycosis Was More Frequently Observed In Western Countries. The Present Review Summarizes The Epidemiology, Etiopathogenesis, Risk Factors, Clinical Manifestations, Diagnosis, Treatment, And Preventive Strategies Related To CAM Globally With Special Emphasis On India. Literature From Peer‑reviewed Journals, WHO Reports, PubMed, And Google Scholar Was Reviewed To Understand The Burden And Outcomes Of This Emerging Fungal Infection. The Findings Indicate That Irrational Steroid Use, Poor Glycemic Control, Endothelial Dysfunction, And Impaired Immunity During COVID‑19 Significantly Contributed To The Outbreak. Early Diagnosis, Surgical Debridement, Prompt Antifungal Therapy, And Management Of Comorbid Conditions Remain Essential For Reducing Mortality. The Review Also Highlights The Need For Awareness Among Healthcare Professionals Regarding Rational Steroid Use And Early Recognition Of Warning Symptoms.

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