Epidemiology of COVID-19–Associated Mucormycosis

Abstract

Purpose of the Review: To describe the epidemiology and risk factors for Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19)–associated mucormycosis (CAM) based on current published literature. Recent Findings: COVID-19 is associated with an increased risk of secondary infections. Mucormycosis is an uncommon invasive fungal infection that typically affects people with immunocompromising conditions and uncontrolled diabetes. Treatment of mucormycosis is challenging and is associated with high mortality even with standard care. During the second wave of the COVID 19 pandemic, an abnormally high number of CAM cases were seen particularly in India. Several case series have attempted to describe the risk factors for CAM. Summary: A common risk profile identified for CAM includes uncontrolled diabetes and treatment with steroids. COVID-19–induced immune dysregulation as well as some unique pandemic specific risk factors may have played a role.