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Sporothrix schenckii Isolated from Edible Black Fungus Mushrooms

Nuria Kazanas1, George J Jackson1

  • 1Division of Microbiology, Food and Drug Administration, Washington, D.C. 20204.

Journal of Food Protection
|March 30, 2019
PubMed

Insights

The fungus Sporothrix schenckii was found in imported black fungus mushrooms, commonly used in Asian cuisine. This marks the first discovery of this human pathogen in edible mushrooms.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Food Safety
  • Medical Mycology

Background:

  • Sporothrix schenckii is a fungus known to cause infections in humans.
  • Edible mushrooms, such as black fungus (Auricularia polytricha), are popular in various cuisines worldwide.
  • The potential for fungal contamination of food products is a significant concern for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify and report the presence of Sporothrix schenckii in imported desiccated black fungus mushrooms.
  • To establish a potential new source for human exposure to Sporothrix schenckii.

Main Methods:

  • Microscopic and gross morphological analysis of the fungus.
  • Assessment of dimorphism at different temperatures (25°C and 37°C).
  • Immunofluorescence assays using fluorescein-labeled antibodies specific to the yeast-cell form of Sporothrix schenckii.

Main Results:

  • Sporothrix schenckii was successfully recovered from imported desiccated black fungus mushrooms (Auricularia polytricha).
  • Identification was confirmed through morphology, dimorphism, and specific antibody reactivity.
  • This is the first documented instance of Sporothrix schenckii being found in or on edible mushrooms.

Conclusions:

  • Imported black fungus mushrooms can harbor the pathogenic fungus Sporothrix schenckii.
  • This finding highlights a previously unrecognized potential route of human exposure to Sporothrix schenckii through culinary practices.
  • Further investigation into the prevalence and safety implications of Sporothrix schenckii in edible mushrooms is warranted.

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