ID:IOTS - Infectious Disease Insight Of Two Specialists 121. Moulds: Mucorales
Oct 6, 2025
Dr. Dora Corzo-Leon, an infectious diseases specialist with a PhD in molecular mycology, joins Callum and Alyssa to delve into the world of Mucorales and mucormycosis. They discuss the confusing taxonomy and diverse species that pose serious health risks, especially in high-risk patients. The conversation highlights the critical role of surgery and antifungal treatments, alongside the rise of COVID-associated mucormycosis in India. With insights into diagnostics and the importance of prompt intervention, this episode is a deep dive into an often-overlooked threat in infectious disease.
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Host Receptors Explain Tissue Tropism
- Host receptors drive tissue tropism: GRP78 expression in hyperglycaemia/ketoacidosis favours rhino-orbital invasion.
- Different lung receptors in hematology patients explain predominance of pulmonary disease.
Rapid 'Bruise' After Trauma Can Be Mucormycosis
- Dora described post-trauma cutaneous mucormycosis that appears as rapidly enlarging purple 'bruise' wounds.
- Apophysomyces often causes trauma-related disease but is hard to culture, so send histology and molecular tests early.
Gastric Necrosis Case After Gastric Tube
- Dora was consulted for a case with a 10 cm gastric ulcer after a gastrostomy in a severe COVID patient.
- Surgeons found rapid necrosis, removed stomach and spleen, and immediate microscopy showed wide ribbon-like hyphae.