Shiitake Mushroom Dermatitis: A Review

Am J Clin Dermatol. 2016 Oct;17(5):485-489. doi: 10.1007/s40257-016-0212-6.

Abstract

Shiitake mushroom dermatitis is a cutaneous reaction caused by the consumption of raw or undercooked shiitake mushrooms. Symptoms include linear erythematous eruptions with papules, papulovesicles or plaques, and severe pruritus. It is likely caused by lentinan, a heat-inactivated beta-glucan polysaccharide. Cases were initially reported in Japan but have now been documented in other Asian countries, North America, South America, and Europe, as this mushroom is now cultivated and consumed worldwide. Shiitake mushroom dermatitis may result from mushroom ingestion or from handling, which can result in an allergic contact dermatitis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cooking
  • Dermatitis / etiology*
  • Dermatitis / pathology
  • Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / etiology
  • Dermatitis, Allergic Contact / pathology
  • Food Hypersensitivity / etiology*
  • Food Hypersensitivity / pathology
  • Humans
  • Lentinan / adverse effects
  • Shiitake Mushrooms / chemistry*

Substances

  • Lentinan