Zygomycotic necrotizing cellulitis in a premature infant.

ABSTRACT

A premature infant with fatal zygomycotic necrotizing cellulitis is reported. Zygomycosis occurs as either an indolent or an acute fulminating form. Cutaneous zygomycosis is a fulminant form of the disease and affects mainly immunocompromised patients. Premature infants with perinatal complications are immunocompromised and therefore at risk for zygomycotic disease, including cutaneous zygomycosis. The different presentations of cutaneous zygomycosis are discussed. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to ensure patient survival. The clinical differential diagnosis of zygomycotic necrotising cellulitis is mentioned as well as methods for the rapid confirmation of the diagnosis.