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Updated: Sep 20, 2026

Human Liver Microphysiological System for Assessing Drug-Induced Liver Toxicity In Vitro
Published on: January 31, 2022
[Liver failure due to mushroom poisoning: clinical course and new treatment perspectives]
M V Catalina1, O Núñez, A Ponferrada
1Servicio de Aparato Digestivo. Sección de Hepatología. Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón. Madrid. España.
Abstract:
Mushroom poisoning, mainly due to the Amanita genus, is an infrequent cause of liver failure in our environment. However, because of its high morbidity and mortality, it constitutes a medical emergency. The characteristic initial symptoms of vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea are nonspecific and may be confused with gastroenteritis. If correct and early treatment is not given, renal and hepatic failure can develop, sometimes requiring liver transplantation. We present three cases of mushroom poisoning, which presented a different clinical course ranging from complete recovery with traditional medical treatment to severe acute liver failure requiring transplantation in one patient and albumin dialysis (molecular absorbent recycling system [MARS]) in another with favorable outcome. Although controlled clinical studies of the treatment of mushroom poisoning are lacking, recommendations based on the experience of various authors have been established. Penicillin G and silymarin seem to be useful. The development of new techniques of extracorporeal detoxification, mainly MARS, may represent an important support system in the treatment of these patients.
Insights
Mushroom poisoning, primarily from Amanita species, is a rare but serious medical emergency. Early treatment and advanced therapies like MARS can improve outcomes for severe liver failure.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Hepatology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Mushroom poisoning, particularly from Amanita species, is an infrequent cause of liver failure.
- It presents a high morbidity and mortality, constituting a medical emergency.
Observation:
- Initial symptoms like vomiting and abdominal pain are nonspecific and can mimic gastroenteritis.
- Severe cases can progress to renal and hepatic failure, necessitating interventions such as liver transplantation or albumin dialysis.
Findings:
- Three cases demonstrated varied clinical courses, from full recovery with conventional treatment to acute liver failure.
- Penicillin G and silymarin showed potential utility in treatment.
- Extracorporeal detoxification, specifically molecular absorbent recycling system (MARS) dialysis, offered a favorable outcome in severe cases.
Implications:
- Prompt diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing mushroom poisoning.
- MARS dialysis represents a significant supportive treatment option for patients with severe liver dysfunction due to mushroom toxicity.
- Further research into standardized treatment protocols for mushroom poisoning is warranted.
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