Mucormycosis (also called zygomycosis) is a rare infection caused by organisms that belong to a group of fungi called Mucoromycotina in the order Mucorales. At one time these fungi were called Zygomycota, but this scientific name has recently been changed. These fungi are typically found in the soil and in association with decaying organic matter, such as leaves, compost piles, or rotten wood.
For other Fungal topics, visit the Fungal Homepage.
Microscopy of Apophysomyces, one of the causative agents of mucormycosis.
Mucormycosis Topics
Definition
What is mucormycosis?…
Symptoms
Sinus & skin infections, lungs, clinical features…
People at Risk & Prevention
Who gets it and how, handling debris, proper wound care…
Causes
Inhalation of spores, contact with the skin…
Diagnosis & Testing
See your health care provider, sample tissue, clinical diagnosis…
Treatment & Outcomes
Antifungal treatment, mortality rate…
Outbreaks
What you need to know…
Statistics
Incidence, surveillance…
Print-N-Go Fact Sheet
Spotlight
Mucormycosis following the Joplin, Missouri Tornado
CDC assisted the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (MDHSS) with an investigation into a number of reports of fungal skin infection in people who were injured by the tornado that struck Joplin in May 2011.
Read about Tornado Survivors Battling the Deadly Fungus Outbreak on the Public Health Matters Blog
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