An unusual cause for facial nerve palsy: mucormycosis

Abstract Rhinocerebral mucormycosis is a rapidly fatal fungal infection affecting mostly uncontrolled diabetics. Multiple cranial nerves can be affected; however, palsy of the facial nerve has been rarely reported. Three uncontrolled diabetic patients presented to our outpatient department with features of rapidly progressive sinusitis and unilateral facial nerve palsy which on further evaluation was proven to be mucormycosis. Patients with uncontrolled diabetes and facial nerve palsy can have an underlying mucormycosis. This is important as early diagnosis and treatment is very prudent for a favorable treatment outcome in mucormycosis.
Source: International Journal of Diabetes in Developing Countries - Category: Endocrinology Source Type: research