Isolated cerebral mucormycosis of the basal ganglia.

Isolated cerebral mucormycosis is a rare fungal infection for which morbidity and mortality remain high despite prompt tissue diagnosis and antifungal treatment. Intravenous drug use is strongly associated with this condition. However, other risk factors classically associated with systemic mucormycosis, such as poorly controlled diabetes and an immunocompromised state, are seldom seen in cases of isolated cerebral involvement. Here, we present a rare case of isolated mucormycosis of the basal ganglia by Rhizopus in a patient with multiple risk factors. Diagnosis and treatment guidelines for isolated cerebral mucormycosis are also reviewed. Earlier detection and therapy are likely to lead to improvement in the course of this otherwise deadly disease.