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Flagellate Dermatitis by Shiitake Mushroom

Summary

This case study describes a young man who developed whip-like linear rashes on his skin a few days after eating shiitake mushrooms. The rash, called flagellate dermatitis, is caused by a heat-sensitive substance in undercooked shiitake called lentinan. The condition is harmless and disappeared completely within a week after applying a steroid cream, highlighting the importance of cooking shiitake thoroughly to prevent this reaction.

Background

Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) is the second most consumed mushroom worldwide and is used in Asian cooking. Consumption of raw or rare cooked shiitake can cause linear eruptions known as flagellate dermatitis, a benign and self-limited condition that resembles whip lashes on the skin.

Objective

To present a case of flagellate dermatitis triggered by shiitake mushroom consumption in a previously healthy young male and discuss the clinical presentation, pathophysiology, and treatment of this condition.

Results

The patient presented with small grouped papules forming linear designs on trunk and proximal upper limbs appearing 4 days after shiitake consumption. Complete remission was observed within 7 days after applying dexamethasone ointment for 5 days.

Conclusion

With the expansion of Oriental cuisine to the West, increased cases of flagellate dermatitis from shiitake consumption are expected. Dermatologists should inquire about shiitake consumption when encountering linear eruptions resembling whip lashes, as patients often fail to associate mushroom ingestion with this condition.
  • Published in:Case Reports in Dermatology,
  • Study Type:Case Report,
  • Source: PMID: 31543768, DOI: 10.1159/000498938
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