By Hemant Sharma Black fungus, scientifically called Mucormycosis, is a rare but serious fungal infection caused by exposure to a group of molds called Mucormycetes. In India, it came into public attention during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many patients with weakened immunity were affected. Early detection is extremely important because if untreated, black fungus can spread rapidly and cause life-threatening complications.
Identifying black fungus requires awareness of both environmental signs (where the fungus grows) and medical symptoms (when infection occurs in humans).
1. Understanding Black Fungus (Mucormycosis)
- Cause: Fungal spores from Mucor, Rhizopus, and related species.
- Habitat: Found in soil, decaying organic matter, compost, manure, and even in damp walls.
- Risk: It mainly affects people with low immunity, uncontrolled diabetes, cancer, or those who had prolonged steroid use.
2. How Black Fungus Looks in the Environment
Identifying the fungus in surroundings can prevent exposure:
- Grows as a black or dark green fuzzy mold on damp surfaces.
- Commonly found on rotting bread, fruits, vegetables, or decomposing organic waste.
- On walls or soil, it appears as black patches with a cottony or powdery texture.
3. Symptoms of Black Fungus Infection in Humans
Once spores enter the body through the nose, mouth, or skin wounds, the infection progresses quickly. Watch for these early signs:
a) Nasal and Sinus Symptoms
- Nasal congestion or blockage
- Blackish or bloody discharge from the nose
- Pain or swelling around the nose and cheeks
b) Eye and Face Symptoms
- Swelling around eyes and eyelids
- Blurred or double vision
- Eye pain and redness
- Black patches on skin near the nose or eyes
c) Oral and Dental Symptoms
- Toothache or loosening of teeth
- Jaw pain
- Blackish discoloration inside the mouth or palate
d) General Symptoms
- Severe headache
- Fever
- Fatigue and shortness of breath
If untreated, the infection can spread from the nose and sinuses to the eyes and brain, becoming fatal.
4. Skin Black Fungus Identification
Sometimes, mucormycosis enters through cuts or wounds:
- Infected skin may look reddish at first, then turn black.
- Swelling, pain, and warmth around the wound.
- Formation of black crusty patches or ulcers.
5. Who Is at Risk?
While anyone can come in contact with fungal spores, certain people are at higher risk:
- Patients with uncontrolled diabetes
- People with weakened immune systems (HIV, cancer, transplant patients)
- Those on long-term steroids or antibiotics
- People exposed to damp or moldy environments for long periods
6. Difference Between Black Fungus and Common Mold
| Feature | Black Fungus Infection | Normal Household Mold |
| Color | Black lesions on skin or tissue | Black/green fuzzy growth on walls or food |
| Health Impact | Life-threatening infection | Usually mild allergy or irritation |
| Growth | Inside the body (sinus, lungs, skin) | On damp surfaces, bread, fruits |
7. When to Seek Medical Help
- If you notice black patches around the nose, eyes, or mouth
- If nasal discharge is blackish or bloody
- If there is sudden swelling or vision problems
Immediate medical consultation with an ENT or infectious disease specialist is critical. Early antifungal treatment and surgery can save lives.
Final Thoughts
Black fungus is not just an ordinary mold but a dangerous infection that spreads aggressively in people with low immunity. Identifying it early involves two steps: recognizing its presence in the environment and spotting the early symptoms in the body. Any blackish discharge, swelling around eyes and nose, or black skin patches should be treated as warning signs. Quick medical action can mean the difference between recovery and serious complications.