Journal de neurologie clinique et de neurochirurgie

Intraparenchymal Hemorrhage Secondary to Rhino Orbitalcerebral Mucormycosis: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Jasper Gerald R. Cubias and Raymond L. Rosales

Mucormycosis is a rare invasive opportunistic fungal infection with high morbidity and mortality, with Intraparenchymal Hemorrhage (ICH) being one of the less common complications cited in available literature. In this case report, we present a case of a 65 year old Filipino diabetic male with non-small cell lung cancer and recent history of steroid use who presented with headache. This patient developed proptosis, chemosis, and purulent discharge from the right eye, and eventually had sudden onset decrease in sensorium on the 6th day of admission. CT scan showed findings of ICH on the right frontal and patient underwent craniotomy and evacuation of hematoma. Histopathology and culture findings confirmed the diagnosis of Rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis. The patient was treated with Amphotericin B initially then shifted to voriconazole based on culture and sensitivity testing. The patient was managed in-patient for 3 months and eventually survived 18 months from the diagnosis.

To date, no case reports of ICH secondary to Rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis are available in our locale. Additionally, patients from all previous published case reports all succumbed to the infection. This case demonstrates that a high index of suspicion and early workup is warranted in patients presenting with headache and having risk factors for mucormycosis. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are keys towards achieving a good outcome in these patients.