MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Brazilian task force for the management of mucormycosis

Summary

Mucormycosis is a serious fungal infection that has become more common in Brazil, especially during COVID-19. This medical emergency requires rapid diagnosis through imaging and tissue sampling, combined with aggressive treatment including antifungal medications and surgery to remove infected tissue. The Brazilian government has made these powerful antifungal drugs more available to improve patient survival and reduce the severe complications of this dangerous infection.

Background

Mucormycosis is a rare but life-threatening fungal infection with increasing incidence globally, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. In Brazil, 311 cases were reported between 2010 and 2021, with 85 cases occurring during the pandemic, predominantly affecting individuals over 40 years with rhino-orbito-cerebral disease.

Objective

To provide evidence-based, context-specific guidelines for the diagnosis and management of mucormycosis within the Brazilian healthcare system. The task force aims to standardize clinical care, improve rapid diagnostics, and reduce the burden of this severe opportunistic infection across Brazil.

Results

Early, aggressive surgical debridement combined with liposomal amphotericin B (5-10 mg/kg/day) induction therapy followed by isavuconazole or posaconazole is recommended. Rhino-orbito-cerebral disease predominates, and strict control of hyperglycemia and immunosuppression is essential for optimal outcomes.

Conclusion

Standardized national guidance, improved rapid diagnostics, systematic surveillance, and equitable drug availability are critical to reduce Brazil’s mucormycosis burden. The Ministry of Health’s incorporation of isavuconazole and expanded liposomal amphotericin B access represents significant progress in treatment accessibility.
  • Published in:Brazilian Journal of Infectious Diseases,
  • Study Type:Narrative Review,
  • Source: 40974632
Scroll to Top