ISSN: 2689-7822
Authors: Pal M*
Due to growing numbers of immunocompromised individuals, there is a global rise in the incidence of fungal diseases, especially the opportunistic mycoses. Zygomycosis is an emerging and re-emerging opportunistic mycosis that is caused by ubiquitously occurring filamentous fungi in the environment. Nosocomial outbreaks of zygomycosis have been recorded in leukemic patients. The disease is reported from many nations of the world including India. The inhalation of spores from the environment is recognized as the common route of transmission. There are evidences to believe that humans and animals may acquire the infection from the saprobic reservoirs. The persons, who are suffering from malignancies, diabetes or undergoing, organ transplantation, and those receiving broad-spectrum antimicrobial drugs, corticosteroid therapy or immunosuppressive agents, are at higher risk to get infection. The direct microscopic demonstration of the pathogen in clinical materials and its isolation in pure and luxuriant form is still considered as the mainstay of diagnosis. The control or reversal of the underlying disease or immunosuppression, antifungal therapy, surgical debridement, and aggressive antifungal therapy remain the gold standard of treatment. An early correct diagnosis and prompt specific antifungal therapy in immunocompromised patients is imperative to prevent the fatal consequences of disease.
Keywords: Emerging Mycosis; Human; Immunosuppression; Opportunistic Pathogen; Public Heath; Zygomycosis
