Evaluation of predisposing factors of covid-19 associated mucormycosis in Tabriz city in 2021

Abstract

Mucormycosis, once a rare fungal disease, has become an important issue in patients with recent/active COVID-19. Rising incidence in countries like Iran and India has become a barrier to our health system. Studies regarding demographic and laboratory characteristics of patients are required for early diagnosis and efficient management. Aims: In this study, we aim to study the clinic-epidemiological profile and risk factors of COVID-19 associated mucormycosis (CAM). Methods: This is a retrospective observational study conducted in Imam Reza and Sina educational hospitals, Tabriz city on 109 CAM patients. All patients admitted between March 21, 2021 to March 20, 2022 were included. Demographic and clinical data were collected from medical record files. Proven diagnosis of COVID-19 was based on a Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) test on nasopharyngeal/oropharyngeal swabs. Results: Among 109 patients with CAM, 54 female and 55 male. The median age was 55.88 ± 12.53 years. 73 patients were hospitalized during covid-19 in whom The mean duration of COVID-19 hospital stay was 12.79 ± 7.12 days. Also, 92.7% had diabetes mellitus as the most common comorbidity. 30.2% of patients were newly diagnosed with diabetes. Out of total population, 86.2% had prior exposure to corticosteroids. Out of 109 enrolled cases, the anatomical involvement included sinonasal (46.8%), rhino-orbito-cerebral (32.1%), rhino-orbital (17.4%) and rhino-cerebral (3.7%). The mean serum ferritin level was 670 ng/ml. Diabetes and steroid usage were significantly associated with CAM.