Published online Mar 6, 2023. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i7.1560
Peer-review started: November 25, 2022
First decision: December 13, 2022
Revised: January 7, 2023
Accepted: February 10, 2023
Article in press: February 10, 2023
Published online: March 6, 2023
Processing time: 96 Days and 19.9 Hours
Cerebral mucormycosis is an infectious disease of the brain caused by fungi of the order Mucorales. These infections are rarely encountered in clinical practice and are often misdiagnosed as cerebral infarction or brain abscess. Increased mortality due to cerebral mucormycosis is closely related to delayed diagnosis and treatment, both of which present unique challenges for clinicians.
Cerebral mucormycosis is generally secondary to sinus disease or other disseminated disease. However, in this retrospective study, we report and analyze a case of isolated cerebral mucormycosis.
The constellation of symptoms including headaches, fever, hemiplegia, and changes in mental status taken together with clinical findings of cerebral infarction and brain abscess should raise the possibility of a brain fungal infection. Early diagnosis and prompt initiation of antifungal therapy along with surgery can improve patient survival.
Core Tip: Cerebral mucormycosis is an infectious disease of the brain caused by fungi of the order Mucorales. These infections are rarely encountered in clinical practice and often misdiagnosed as cerebral infarction or brain abscess. Diagnosis and treatment are challenging, and as such this disease is often associated with a high mortality rate. Through this case study, we aim to help further understand the pathophysiology of cerebral mucormycosis and suggest strategies for the improvement of clinical diagnosis and treatment thereof.