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Odontogenic-onset mucormycosis: A case series from a tertiary care institute in North India

Summary

Mucormycosis is a serious fungal infection that can develop after dental procedures like tooth extraction or root canal therapy, especially in people with poorly controlled diabetes. This case study from India describes five patients who developed this infection within weeks of dental work. The infection destroys bone in the upper jaw and palate but usually doesn’t spread to the sinuses like other forms of mucormycosis. All patients improved with antifungal medications and surgical cleaning, highlighting the importance of proper sterilization during dental procedures.

Background

Mucormycosis is an angio-invasive opportunistic fungal infection that primarily affects immunocompromised individuals, particularly those with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus. While rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) is well-documented, odontogenic-onset mucormycosis (OOM) is an emerging clinical entity characterized by dental symptoms and alveolar bone involvement following dental procedures.

Objective

To present a series of five cases of odontogenic-onset mucormycosis managed at a tertiary care center in North India, highlighting the clinico-radiological features, diagnostic challenges, and the critical need for awareness among dental practitioners about this distinct entity.

Results

All five patients presented with OOM within 3-6 weeks of dental procedures (tooth extraction or root canal therapy). Radiological imaging revealed osteolytic lesions of maxillary alveolar bone with minimal sinus involvement. Histopathology confirmed broad aseptate fungal hyphae consistent with mucormycosis. All patients responded well to combination therapy with surgical debridement and liposomal amphotericin B followed by oral posaconazole.

Conclusion

This case series underscores odontogenic-onset mucormycosis as a distinct clinical entity requiring heightened awareness among dental professionals. Early diagnosis and prompt intervention combining antifungal therapy and surgical management are critical. Strict aseptic precautions during dental procedures and glycemic control are essential preventive measures.
  • Published in:Medical Mycology Case Reports,
  • Study Type:Case Series,
  • Source: PMID: 41017794, DOI: 10.1016/j.mmcr.2025.100730
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