Amanita preissii "mushroom" poisoning

"Mushroom" poisoning has rarely been reported in Australia. We present six cases of Amanita preissii poisoning successfully treated with atropine sulphate. The symptoms and signs were typical of muscarinic poisoning, which suggests that this alkaloid is the principal toxic component. A short time interval between the ingestion of poisonous fungi and the onset of symptoms, in our cases within one hour, indicates a good prognosis. The dangers of mistaking poisonous for edible varieties of fungi are emphasized, particularly in relation to immigrants not conversant with Australian fungi. Public education and control of marketing are advised.