The Toxicity Mechanism and Treatment Methods of Poisonous Mushrooms

Abstract

Poisonous mushrooms act as decomposers in the ecosystem. Because of their confusing resemblance to common mushrooms, they are often eaten inadvertently and cause serious poisoning. Different poisonous mushrooms contain different kinds of toxins, such as goitrogens and umbrella toxins. Poisoning can cause irreversible damage to organs such as the liver and kidneys. Clinical symptoms and duration of poisoning vary among different types of poisonous mushrooms in different regions. The most common clinical manifestations include gastrointestinal symptoms, liver failure and neurological disorders. Current diagnostic tools are mainly based on symptomatology and laboratory tests such as high-performance liquid chromatography. Treatment after poisoning is generally supportive therapy and antidotes, and in extreme cases liver transplantation is considered. In this research, two of the most typical poisonous mushrooms, the gooseberry and the death cap, were used as examples by analyzing open source information and cases. Their toxin composition poisoning symptoms as well as the principles of toxicogenesis were studied. Treatment strategies for poisonous mushroom poisoning are proposed, which can provide scientific basis for future prevention and treatment.