Rhizomucor species

Background

• Genus of dematiaceous molds within the order Mucorales

Microbiology

• Macroscopic:
  • Rapid growth
  • Wooly texture
  • Pale brown on the surface, reverse white
• Microscopic:
  • Broad hyphae, scarcely septate
  • Rudimentary rhizoids and stolons but RARE
  • Branched sporangiophores
  • Apophysis absent
  • Sporangiospores round or oval
• Temperature:
  • Grows at 54ºC which is a unique feature and allows it to be identified

Clinical Manifestations

• Causes mucomycosis, usually in hematologic malignancies
• Can can pulmonary, rhinofacial, cerebral, or disseminated disease