Ganoderma lingzhi (Reishi Mushroom)-Induced Acute Liver Injury in the Setting of Alcohol Use: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Author: mycolabadmin
9/25/2023
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Summary

A 47-year-old man developed severe liver inflammation after consuming Reishi mushroom powder while drinking large amounts of vodka over three days. Although Reishi mushrooms are commonly promoted as healthy supplements, in this case the combination with alcohol caused his liver enzymes to spike dangerously high. The patient recovered after hospital treatment, but the case highlights that even natural supplements can be harmful, especially when combined with alcohol. This raises concerns that more research is needed on how mushroom supplements interact with other substances people consume.

Background

Dietary and herbal supplements are known to cause hepatotoxicity, with over 100,000 products available in the United States without federal regulation. Ganoderma lingzhi (Reishi mushroom) is widely used in traditional Eastern medicine and is promoted for various health benefits, though it has been associated with hepatotoxicity in certain cases. Limited research exists on the systemic effects of co-ingestion of mushroom supplements with other substances such as alcohol.

Objective

To present a case of acute hepatitis induced by Reishi mushroom powder consumption combined with alcohol use and review the literature on herbal supplement-induced liver injury. The authors aimed to highlight the importance of recognizing mushroom supplement-related hepatotoxicity and potential drug interactions.

Results

The patient presented with significantly elevated liver enzymes (AST 301 U/L, ALT 990 U/L) and was found to have acute hepatitis. Laboratory values improved by day 2 (AST 110, ALT 612) and completely resolved by two-week follow-up (AST 16, ALT 45). Imaging studies ruled out structural liver pathology and viral hepatitis was negative.

Conclusion

The case demonstrates that Ganoderma lingzhi mushroom powder can induce acute hepatotoxicity, particularly when combined with alcohol consumption. The authors suggest that G. lingzhi may inhibit CYP2E1 enzyme, reducing ethanol metabolism and increasing hepatitis risk. As herbal supplement use increases globally, further research into interactions with commonly consumed substances like alcohol is imperative.

Published in:Cureus,
Study Type:Case Report,
Source: PMID: 37885515