Publications

The COVID-19-associated Rhinoorbitocerebral Mucormycosis (ROCM) epidemic in India was a daunting challenge, marked by high morbidity and mortality. While aggressive treatment strategies saved lives, many survivors endured prolonged hospitalisations, multiple surgeries, and significant psychosocial burden. Long-term impacts on their quality of life remain poorly documented. This study evaluated the quality of life of COVID-19 ROCM survivors at 18months follow-up.

Method: This ambispective cohort study included 69 COVID-19-associated ROCM patients treated from May to July 2021. Of the 56 patients discharged after the first admission, 37 were available for follow-up at 18 months. The quality of life in these 37 patients was assessed using the SF-12 questionnaire.  A value <50 was considered to indicate poor QOL.

Results: Of the 69 patients included, 23/69(33·33%) had sinonasal disease, 27/69(39·13%) rhinoorbital disease, 15/69(21·73%) rhinoorbitocerebral disease and 4/69(5·79%) rhinocerebral disease. After primary admission, 56/69(81.1%) were discharged and 13/69(18.8%) had died.

At 18 months follow-up, 37/56 were alive and completed the questionnaire. The median physical component (PCS) score was 50.96(IQR 42.18-56.07) and the median mental component (MCS) score was 47.14(IQR 35.49-53.95). The PCS in 16/37(43%) patients and MCS in 23/37(62%) were less than the national average of 50. The financial burden of treatment, COVID-19 death in the family, disfigurement, and loss of vision were cited for poor mental health.

Conclusion: The impact of COVID-19-associated ROCM extends far beyond survival, leaving patients with lasting physical disability and psychosocial distress. Long-term and comprehensive rehabilitation is not optional, but it is imperative.