Rhino-Orbito-Cerebral Mucormycosis: Neglected Mycoses in Childhood Malignancies

Abstract

Background: Rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis is an invasive fungal infection affecting mainly the immunecompromised population. Untreated, it is a fatal disorder. Case details: An 8 year old Ethiopian boy under care for Pancytopenia due to aplastic anemia developed bilateral maxillary swelling while on treatment for febrile neutropenia. He had bilateral nasal discharge mixed with blood, stuffiness, high grade fever and a soft palate ulcer. Diagnosis was made clinically and using paranasal sinus imaging. Conclusion: Early diagnosis of Rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis in patients at risk can prevent disfigurement, bacterial super-infection, invasion to contiguous structures and death.