Diagnosis and management of mucormycosis in the dental clinic: A guide for oral health professionals in India

With the current pandemic raging over the world, science and medicine is faced with hereto with unfought enemies or less fought opponent in the form of viruses and consequently, other biotic entities. While researchers are striving to identify and conquer the variants of COVID-19, other innocuous organisms are raising their ugly heads in the form of opportunistic fungal infections. Mucormycosis/Black Fungus is an invasive opportunistic fungal infection caused by mucorale species. It spreads through blood vessels causing thrombosis, ischemia, and necrosis. Population with pre-existing immunocompromised conditions such as Diabetes Mellitus, Malignancy, Long-term immunosuppressant therapy are more susceptible. Mucormycosis associated with Corona Virus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) proved to be catastrophic due to its high mortality rates. Rhino orbital Mucormycosis is the most common form. The primary care physician, being the first and often, (more so in developing countries) and being the only point of contact with a healthcare professional, plays a pivotal role in the diagnosis and management of this condition. The keystone to decreasing mortality is early detection and diagnosis followed by preventive measures to control progression to the brain. A multidisciplinary approach by various specialties is a prerequisite for effective diagnosis and management. Antifungal therapy, surgical debridement, and resection of the affected areas are protocols to be followed. Post-operative defects cause impairment of function, phonetics, and esthetics. Prosthetic rehabilitation of these defects has shown favorable results, especially in the aged and immunocompromised individuals.