Invasive mold infections are uncommon but serious infections that tend to affect people with weakened immune systems—such as individuals undergoing chemotherapy, organ or stem-cell transplant recipients, or people on certain long-term steroid or immunosuppressive medicines. Two names you may hear are invasive aspergillosis and mucormycosis. While they’re both caused by molds, they differ in how they’re acquired, the tissues they prefer, and how they’re managed in the hospital.
How do people get exposed?
Mold spores are everywhere—in soil, decaying leaves, and even indoor dust. Most healthy people clear these spores without getting sick. When the immune system is suppressed, however, spores can take hold in the sinuses or lungs and spread to other organs.
Who is most at risk?
- Recent chemotherapy or transplant
- Prolonged neutropenia (very low white blood cells)
- Long-term steroid or other immunosuppressive therapy
- Uncontrolled diabetes or iron overload (particularly important in mucormycosis)
What might clinicians watch for?
While only a medical team can diagnose these infections, typical red flags they evaluate include:
- Persistent fever that doesn’t respond to broad antibiotics
- Chest pain, coughing, or shortness of breath
- Sinus symptoms, facial pain, or black eschar in the nose or palate (in mucormycosis)
- Imaging findings on CT scans and specialized lab tests (e.g., fungal biomarkers, cultures, PCR)
Why early action matters
The earlier clinicians suspect and confirm an invasive mold infection, the sooner they can begin targeted antifungal therapy, adjust immunosuppression when possible, and consider surgical management in select cases (more common with mucormycosis).
What you can do as a patient or caregiver
- Share a clear timeline of symptoms and medications with the care team.
- Ask about protective measures in high-risk periods (masking in dusty areas, HEPA filtration guidance from your team, central line care).
- Keep all follow-up appointments and imaging/lab checks.
Educational content only. Not medical advice. Speak with your healthcare professional for guidance about symptoms, testing, and treatment options.