Zygomycosis and HIV infection.

The severe immunosuppression associated with HIV infection increases susceptibility to opportunistic fungi. We describe a primary gangrenous cutaneous infection caused by Rhizopus arrhizus in an HIV-infected intravenous narcotic user. In addition, we review nine reported cases of zygomycosis in HIV-infected patients and discuss the frequency and outcome of zygomycosis in HIV infection. Eight of 10 patients were intravenous drug users. Cutaneous infection occurred in four patients. Another case was associated with drug-induced neutropenia. With treatment, 60% of the patients recovered. HIV-induced immunosuppression rarely predisposes to zygomycosis except in intravenous drug users or persons with other risk factors for this fungal infection.