Mucormycosis of the Facial Region: A Fatal Complication of Uncontrolled Diabetes Mellitus—A Case Report

Erbil Dental Journal · Published 2026-06-30 · DOI 10.15218/edj.2026.13

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Authors (6)

Wirya Kamal Sadeq, Shaheen Ali Ahmed, Khurshid A. Kheder Khrwatany, Twana Hoshyar Saleem, Reka Ramiz Ali, Abduljaleel Azad Samad

Abstract

Mucormycosis is a rare but severe fungal infection caused by fungi in the order Mucorales, typically affecting immunocompromised individuals. This opportunistic infection often presents in patients with uncontrolled diabetes, hematologic malignancies, or those on immunosuppressive therapy. The most common form of mucormycosis is rhino-orbital-cerebral, which can lead to facial gangrene, a life-threatening condition characterized by tissue necrosis due to impaired blood flow. The pathogenesis of mucormycosis involves the inhalation of fungal spores that invade blood vessels, leading to ischemia, thrombosis, and necrosis. Early diagnosis and prompt intervention, including antifungal treatment and surgical debridement, are crucial in improving survival rates. However, the high mortality associated with facial gangrene due to mucormycosis underscores the need for timely management and a multidisciplinary approach. This review explores the clinical features, diagnostic methods, therapeutic strategies, and outcomes of mucormycosis-associated facial gangrene, highlighting the importance of early recognition and aggressive treatment in preventing catastrophic consequences.

Abstract from DOAJ. Public domain (CC0 1.0).

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Publication details

Year
2026

Citation

Sadeq, W., Ahmed, S., Khrwatany, K., et al. (2026). Mucormycosis of the Facial Region: A Fatal Complication of Uncontrolled Diabetes Mellitus—A Case Report. Erbil Dental Journal. https://doi.org/10.15218/edj.2026.13

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