skip to main content

Mucormycosis — SCE Infectious Diseases MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

ModerateFungal InfectionsMucormycosisSCE Infectious Diseases

A 65-year-old man with poorly controlled diabetes presents with rapidly progressive right-sided facial swelling, black necrotic tissue on the hard palate, periorbital oedema, and proptosis. He has a fever of 39.5°C and is confused. CT sinuses shows opacification of the right maxillary and ethmoid sinuses with bony erosion. What is the most likely diagnosis and most appropriate treatment?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis; urgent surgical debridement plus Liposomal Amphotericin B

Black necrotic eschar on the palate with aggressive rhino-orbital disease in a diabetic patient is pathognomonic of mucormycosis (Rhizopus, Mucor species). This is a surgical emergency requiring extensive debridement plus high-dose Liposomal Amphotericin B (5–10 mg/kg/day). Voriconazole has NO activity against Mucorales. Mortality is very high without prompt surgery. Diabetic ketoacidosis should be corrected urgently.

Reference: ECMM/MSG 2019 – Guidelines for mucormycosis; BSAC 2022 – Antifungal guidelines