Mushroom poisoning. Symptoms, diagnostics and therapy

Life-threatening mushroom poisoning is rare in Germany. The diagnosis of mushroom poisoning is based on three criteria: identification of the mushroom ingested, the latency time between ingestion and onset of symptoms and finally, confirmation by clinical laboratory investigations. In the early stages a clinical differentiation between harmless and dangerous mushroom poisoning can be difficult for the summoned emergency doctor. A thorough collation of the course of events is, therefore, of particular importance. This article presents basic knowledge on the main groups of fungi and provides the reader with primary measures which must be undertaken in cases of mushroom poisoning. The most important fungal syndromes and the therapeutic options are presented.     «

Life-threatening mushroom poisoning is rare in Germany. The diagnosis of mushroom poisoning is based on three criteria: identification of the mushroom ingested, the latency time between ingestion and onset of symptoms and finally, confirmation by clinical laboratory investigations. In the early stages a clinical differentiation between harmless and dangerous mushroom poisoning can be difficult for the summoned emergency doctor. A thorough collation of the course of events is, therefore, of parti...     »