Severe mushroom poisoning in one Macedonian family

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Collecting and consuming wild mushrooms is a historical tradition in many European countries, including The Republic of Macedonia. This activity is predominantly performed in the period between June and October, when the weather is warm and humidity in the air and soil is at higher levels.The Amanita genus consists of 500 different species of mushrooms; among these, Amanita phaloides, Amanita virosa and Amanita verna are most commonly found in oak forests in our country. These species are highly poisonous and because they can be similar to some edible mushrooms, they have often been misidentified. Their consumption causes severe intoxication.

PURPOSE: The aim of this case series report is to demonstrate a severe poisoning with Amanita mushrooms (A. verna) that occurred in 8 patients, all from 1 Macedonian family.

RESULTS: We show the differences in the clinical appearance and status of these patients, the wide spectrum of symptoms as well as the treatment and outcome of this rare poisoning. One patient, an 8-month-old baby, was excluded from the study because the infant was immediately transferred to the pediatric clinic after admission to our clinic.

CONCLUSIONS: Despite modern therapy, poisoning due to ingestion of Amanita mushrooms is a serious clinical and health problem that may even be potentially lethal. The most efficient way for the general public to protect itself against potential poisoning is to avoid ingesting mushrooms that may not be edible.