Mucormycosis, or black fungus, is a severe fungal infection that spreads rapidly through tissues and blood vessels. It primarily affects those with a weakened immune system. The fungal load can potentially double within hours without the use of potent antifungal medications.

How quickly does mucormycosis progress?
Mucormycosis progresses rapidly and can be fatal within 30 to 60 days if left untreated. In severe cases, it may claim a life in as little as 10 days. Delaying treatment, even by a few days, can result in devastating consequences, such as the loss of vital structures like the eye or jawbone, or even death. Early intervention is critical to managing this aggressive infection.
How Does Mucormycosis Enter the Body?
Mucormycosis is caused by a fungus called mucor. Mucor is the black material we see on rotten food and dead organisms, and it is found everywhere in our environment. We inhale or come into contact with these fungal spores every day. However, a healthy immune system usually prevents the infection from developing. Only when our immunity is compromised can the fungus take hold and cause infection.
Who Can Develop Mucormycosis?
As mentioned above, mucor can only affect us when our immunity is compressed. So, people with weakened immune systems are at the highest risk for mucormycosis. This includes:
Organ transplant patients on immune-suppressing medications
Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy
Individuals with immune deficiency syndromes, such as AIDS
Patients on long-term steroid use
Uncontrolled diabetic patients
Can Mucormycosis Spread From One Person to Another?
No, mucormycosis does not spread from person to person. It primarily affects individuals with severely weakened immune systems, which is relatively rare. The fungus is abundant in the environment and is something we inhale daily, but it only becomes dangerous when immunity is significantly compromised.
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