Study of comparision between koh and histopathology report in post covid19 fungal infection; our experience

Objectives: This study is aimed to compare the diagnostic modalities of detecting fungus; KOH mount and Histopathological evaluation in cases of invasive fungal rhinosinusitis. Invasive fungal rhinosinusitis, i.e. fungal invasion of sinus mucosa, submucosa, blood vessels, bone, etc.has emerged as one of the most debilitating sequelae of corona virus infection. This sudden rise in fungal infection may be multifactorial with reasons ranging from low immunity status to uncontrolled diabetes mellitus to incessant steroid use to hyperferritinemia due to Covid Infection. While most of the diagnosis rests on clinical and radiological grounds, the nature of the species of fungus to provide tailor made treatment, as well as differentiation from non fungal sinusitis, is also of utmost importance. Here in this study of 85 patients who presented with Post Covid infection, a comparison is being made between KOH and HPR to determine which a better suited test is in the diagnostic dilemma. Material & Methods: Nasal discharge or crusting are collected in a sterile manner from Nasal, Rhino orbital, Rhiniorbital cerebral Post covid 19 invasive fungal sinusitis patients. KOH Microscopy & Histopathological examinations were done. Conclusion: In post covid 19 invasive fungal infections KOH & HPR were very helpful diagnostic treatment. However HPR was more definitive in diagnosing the invasive fungal sinusitis which also helped in prompt treatment & reduced mortality & morbidity.