Background: Invasive Zygomycete infection of the skin and
Subcutaneous tissue is rare but can be life-threatening. Although
seen more commonly in immunosuppressed patients
such as those with diabetes or malignancy, it is now increasingly
being reported in immunocompetent patients.
Objective: We report a patient who presented with fever
five days post-aesthetic surgery for bilateral breast implants.
Summary of a Case: Severe pain and erythema were noted
at the wound site of the implant on the right breast initially
spreading later to the left breast. Debridement and surgical removal
of breast implants were carried out. Zygomycete species
were identified in the necrotic tissue. Fungal infection should
be suspected in patients not responding to conventional antibiotics.
Infection may be iatrogenic and needs a high index
of suspicion. Successful treatment is possible only if an early
and timely diagnosis is made. Adequate surgical debridement
and a prolonged oral systemic antifungal treatment
allowed full recovery.