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Infective Gangrene in Extremity Trauma—Are We Targeting the Right Organisms?

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Abstract

Mucormycosis is a rare and fatal infection that is known to occur in immunocompromised and diabetic patients. The infection is caused by a fungus of the class Zygomycetes. It has been associated with open fractures in patients at risk. We report a case of cutaneous mucormycosis leading to gangrene after a closed fracture. We recommend considering mucormycosis as a differential for wound infections not responding to antibiotics, even in closed injuries. Tissue from surgical debridement should be sent for histopathological and microbiological examination to diagnose the condition early. Early recognition, surgical management, and parenteral antifungal therapy are the mainstay of management of this illness.

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Correspondence to Seema Singh.

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Thawani, R., Singh, S., Sharma, S. et al. Infective Gangrene in Extremity Trauma—Are We Targeting the Right Organisms?. Indian J Surg 77 (Suppl 1), 10–12 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12262-014-1033-6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12262-014-1033-6

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