Rhizopus infection is an invasive fungal disease, often a Rhizopus microsporus lung infection, that carries a high mortality rate, and is increasingly found in patients with compromised immune systems.
Understanding Rhizopus Infections
Rhizopus species are a type of mold that can cause serious infections, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems. While Rhizopus infections can affect various parts of the body, lung infections are particularly dangerous.
Key Characteristics of Rhizopus microsporus Lung Infection
- Invasive Fungal Disease: This means the fungus actively invades and damages tissues.
- High Mortality Rate: The infection is often life-threatening.
- Immunocompromised Patients: People with weakened immune systems (e.g., due to diabetes, cancer, or organ transplantation) are at significantly higher risk. According to the provided reference, Rhizopus microsporus lung infection is increasingly common in this patient population.
- Rarity in Immunocompetent Patients: It's unusual for people with healthy immune systems to develop this infection.
