Though a rare fungal infection, Mucormycosis’ treatment is an aggressive one due to its disseminating nature within the body and high mortality rate. The following treatment protocols are generally followed in case Mucormycosis is suspected and diagnosed:
a. Doctors usually start with an intravenous injection of a strong dose of Amphotericin B. Dosage and potency is determined by the physicians and specialists. They could use a 1-1.Five mg per kg IV infused in 5 percent dextrose over four to six hours measure. Amphotericin B in Phospholipid Complex form of the drug with a dosage of 5 mg per kg/d IV is also an alternative choice. Pediatric doses are suggested by physicians.
b. At times Posaconazole is used in place of Amphotericin B. The potency and dosage are prescribed by the doctors generally following the rule of 800 mg/d in two to four equally divided doses with food or supplements.
c. Both the drugs have side effects in mid-long term treatment and the doctors will go through your case depending on your medical case history.
d. Surgical removal of fungal balls and dead or infected tissues after following a complete course of either Amphotericin B or Posaconazole. This has the potential of disfiguring the eye, nasal and palate cavities and a restorative surgery would later be recommended. Avoiding surgery could lead to relapse and death.
e. Drainage and lavage of sinus
However, before surgery, these key points must be taken care of and observed:
• Ceasing any immunosuppressant drugs such as steroids before surgery.
• Interrupting any deferoxamine therapy if being given.
• Diabetic ketoacidosis requires insulin, correction of acidosis with sodium bicarbonate, and rehydration.
The prognosis for Mucormycosis is rather depressing with mortality rates anywhere between 25 percent to 80 percent depending upon organs affected. Death rates are high even where aggressive surgical procedures have been undertaken. The mortality rate is staggering at 90 pecent in cases of disseminated Mucormycosis and 100 percent for AIDS patients.
Besides this, the condition runs the patient into complications such as creating blockages in lung vessels and blindness. At times, there is also loss of neurological functions. It is for these reasons (prognosis and complications) that persons with immune disorders should contact health professionals as soon as they run fever, sinus pain, eye swelling and other symptoms.
Stubbing the spread of Mucormycosis is possible through frequent wound dressing, avoiding the use of equipments used in dressing for other patients. People can also be educated about the disease and its underlying causes which is especially important for Mucormycosis survivors. Patients under treatment with acute neutropenia should be kept in rooms with High Efficiency Particulate Air filters.
Mamta Singh is a published author of the books Migraines for the Informed Woman (Publisher: Rupa & Co.) and the upcoming Rev Up Your Life! (Publisher: Hay House India). She is also a seasoned business, creative and academic writer. She is a certified fitness instructor, personal trainer & sports nutritionist through IFA, Florida USA. Mamta is an NCFE-certified Holistic Health Therapist SAC Dip U.K. She is the lead writer and holds Expert Author status in many well-received health, fitness and nutrition sites. She runs her own popular blogs on migraines in women and holistic health. Mamta holds a double Master's Degree in Commerce and Business. She is a registered practitioner with the UN recognised Art of Living Foundation. Link: http://www.migrainingjenny.wordpress.com and http://www.footstrike.wordpress.com