Accidental finding of COVID-associated mucormycosis (CAM) in a patient presenting as toothache: A case report and review of literature

Key Clinical Message Mucormycosis is an angio-invasive rapidly progressing fungal infection, usually reported in immunocompromised individuals. We present a case of COVID-associated mucormycosis in a patient with a presenting symptom of toothache in the maxilla with a possible mild case of COVID-19. Coronavirus-associated mucormycosis (CAM) had reached epidemic status, especially during the second wave of COVID-19. It was especially prevalent in India with a large mortality rate. Mucormycosis, particularly the rhinocerebral type is seen to be greatly associated with COVID-19, especially in patients with altered immunity. Uncontrolled diabetes, chronic kidney disease, immunocompromised patients, malignant hematological diseases, etc. are the major risk factors of CAM, precipitated by the injudicious use of corticosteroids for the treatment of COVID-19. CAM may often present in the maxillofacial region which warrants that dental clinicians be aware of the clinical presentation, diagnostic guidelines, and appropriate management measures for the disease. This report is one such case of CAM involving the posterior maxilla in a middle-aged individual with mild COVID-19 symptoms.

Automated summary

This article presents a case of COVID-associated mucormycosis in a patient with toothache in the maxilla, possibly with mild COVID-19 symptoms. Mucormycosis, especially the rhinocerebral type, is strongly associated with COVID-19, especially in immunocompromised patients. This report highlights the importance of awareness and appropriate management of mucormycosis in the maxillofacial region.