Amphotericin B induced hypokalemia in a diabetic patient with rhino-orbitocerebral mucormycosis

Abstract

Rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis is an aggressive and potentially lethal invasive fungal infection. Surgical debridement and amphotericin B remain the mainstay of treatment, however, associated side effects of amphotericin B like nephrotoxicity, hypokalemia, hypertension and arrhythmias need to be addressed. We discuss the anesthetic management of a 47 year old male with uncontrolled diabetes diagnosed with left sinoorbital mucormycosis posted for surgical debridement. The patient received amphotericin B and insulin preoperatively. Nephrotoxicity due to amphotericin B led to hypokalemia in this patient. We also discuss the role of liposomal formulation in preventing hypokalemia and other side effects associated with use of amphotericin.