DELAYED AMATOXIN POISONING MIMICKING GASTROENTERITIS IN A RURAL EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT: A CASE REPORT

Abdulkadir UĞUREL

Eurasian Journal of Toxicology - 2026;8(2):33-35

University of Health Sciences, Istanbul Haydarpaşa Numune Health Implementation and Research Center, İstanbul, Türkiye

 

Introduction: Mushroom poisoning caused by amatoxin-containing species may initially present with mild gastrointestinal symptoms followed by a transient improvement, which can lead to delayed diagnosis. Case: A 54-year-old male living in a rural area presented to the emergency department with nausea and vomiting after consuming wild mushrooms he had foraged. On initial evaluation, his vital signs were stable and laboratory findings were within normal limits. Following symptomatic treatment, his complaints improved; however, despite being informed about all potential risks, the patient stated that he was experienced in mushroom foraging and chose to leave the hospital after signing a refusal of further examination and treatment. Two days later, he was readmitted with worsening symptoms, and laboratory tests revealed markedly elevated liver enzymes and coagulopathy. The clinical findings were consistent with amatoxin poisoning. Conclusion: Early clinical improvement in amatoxin poisoning may be misleading and can result in premature discharge. Therefore, careful evaluation and thorough patient counseling are essential in patients with a history of mushroom consumption.