MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Local mushroom poisoning: a case report study

Summary

A 26-year-old woman became severely ill after eating poisonous mountain mushrooms she mistakenly thought were edible. She developed serious heart problems, elevated liver enzymes, and inflammation of the pancreas, requiring intensive care and a heart defibrillator shock. After receiving NAC (N-acetylcysteine) infusions and dialysis for a week, she gradually recovered and was eventually discharged in good condition. This case highlights the dangers of wild mushroom foraging and the importance of seeking immediate medical attention if poisoning is suspected.

Background

Mushroom poisoning from wild and unidentified mushrooms that resemble edible varieties poses a serious public health risk, particularly in regions where mushroom foraging is common. Misidentification due to gaps between traditional knowledge and scientific mycology is a major contributing factor. Delayed symptom onset and the complexity of toxin mechanisms complicate timely medical intervention.

Objective

This case report documents the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment outcomes of a 26-year-old woman with postpartum cardiomyopathy who presented with acute mushroom poisoning from local mountain mushrooms.

Results

The patient presented with severe cardiac dysfunction (ejection fraction 25%), ventricular tachycardia requiring defibrillation, elevated liver enzymes, and evidence of pancreatitis. After 7 days of NAC infusion and dialysis treatment in the ICU, ejection fraction improved to 40%, consciousness improved, and the patient was extubated. The patient developed bilateral lower extremity paresthesia which subsequently resolved.

Conclusion

Prompt medical intervention with NAC infusion and supportive care in the ICU led to successful patient recovery from severe mushroom poisoning. Early recognition of mushroom poisoning symptoms and immediate medical treatment are critical to prevent life-threatening complications including cardiac dysfunction, liver failure, and the need for organ transplantation.
  • Published in:Oxford Medicine Case Reports,
  • Study Type:Case Report,
  • Source: PMID: 40979813, DOI: 10.1093/omcr/omaf121
Scroll to Top