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Mycetismus in Hamadan, of west Iran
E Omidynia1, R Rashidpourai, M T Qaderi
1Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Iran.
Abstract:
Mycetismus or mushroom poisoning is defined in Anisworth and Brisby's Dictionary of the Fungi as distress resulting from the consumption of a fungal organism. This is in contrast to mycotoxicosis where the fungus, usually a hyphomycete, acts on some foodstuff of humans or animals and alters it. The paper describes three incidents of poisoning by the mushroom Amanita virosa in the Hamadan region of Iran. Two poisoning incidents occurred in adults and one in a child. All patients were associated with severe gastrointestinal symptoms including profuse diarrhea, vomiting and intestinal pain. For identification of A. virosa, in addition to the case history and the symptoms, examination of kitchen waste was done and mushroom remains examined with 2% aqueous KOH, Melzer's reagent, using the identification keys of Bresinsky. Because this fungus is likely to be confused with edible mushrooms and mushroom hunting is a popular endeavor in some areas of the Hamadan region, it is important to educate people about the dangers involved.
Insights
Mushroom poisoning, or mycetismus, can cause severe gastrointestinal distress. Three cases of poisoning from Amanita virosa in Iran highlight the need for public education on mushroom dangers.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Toxicology
- Public Health
Background:
- Mycetismus is defined as distress from consuming a poisonous fungus.
- Mycotoxicosis involves fungal alteration of foodstuffs, distinct from direct poisoning.
- Mushroom hunting is a popular activity in some regions, increasing poisoning risks.
Observation:
- Three incidents of poisoning by Amanita virosa occurred in the Hamadan region of Iran.
- Two adult patients and one child experienced severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
- Amanita virosa was identified through case history, symptom analysis, kitchen waste examination, and microscopic analysis of mushroom remains.
Findings:
- Amanita virosa consumption led to severe gastrointestinal distress in all three patients.
- Microscopic examination using KOH and Melzer's reagent, alongside identification keys, confirmed A. virosa.
- The potential for confusion between A. virosa and edible mushrooms was noted.
Implications:
- Public education on the dangers of poisonous mushrooms like Amanita virosa is crucial.
- Awareness campaigns are needed in areas where mushroom hunting is common.
- Preventing accidental mushroom poisoning requires clear identification guidelines and public outreach.