Fatal fulminant hepatitis associated with Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi) mushroom powder.

Wanmuang, Harirak; Leopairut, Juvady; Kositchaiwat, Chomsri; Wananukul, Winai; Bunyaratvej, Sukhum

Fatal fulminant hepatitis associated with Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi) mushroom powder.

Date

2007-01-12

Authors

Wanmuang, Harirak

Leopairut, Juvady

Kositchaiwat, Chomsri

Wananukul, Winai

Bunyaratvej, Sukhum

Abstract

Hepatotoxic effect related to Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi) mushroom powder was first described in a patient from Hong Kong in 2004. In 2005, the authors experienced a case of fatal fulminant hepatitis associated with such a preparation. Both patients had taken other therapeutic agents and traditionally boiled Lingzhi without any toxic effect. After switching to taking Lingzhi in powder form for 1-2 months, the hepatotoxic episode occurred in both patients. The toxic role of Lingzhi powder needs close monitoring in the future, especially in combination with other drugs.

Description

Chotmaihet Thangphaet.

Citation

Wanmuang H, Leopairut J, Kositchaiwat C, Wananukul W, Bunyaratvej S. Fatal fulminant hepatitis associated with Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi) mushroom powder. Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand. 2007 Jan; 90(1): 179-81