A characteristic rash caused by Shiitake mushrooms – An emerging concern?

Abstract

Shiitake mushroom dermatitis is a striking rash that can present as an emergency. Despite the dramatic appearance, the rash is an idiosyncratic reaction which resolves spontaneously and does not progress to anaphylaxis.

Potential of Mushrooms Bioactive for the Treatment of Skin Diseases and Disorders

“…For instance, contact dermatitis has also been reported after handling or ingesting other mushroom species, such as the common button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) and other edible varieties [13,127]. Tese reactions are typically characterized by pruritic and eczematous eruptions, which are histologically similar to shiitake dermatitis, suggesting a common immunological pathway in the hypersensitivity response to diferent mushroom species [128].…”

“…Further research into the identifcation of specifc allergenic proteins and polysaccharides, as well as their mechanisms of action, will be vital in developing preventive strategies and therapeutic interventions for mushroom-related hypersensitivity reactions [129]. Beta-glucans and immune modulation: beta-glucans, prevalent in varieties like shiitake and maitake, have been shown to enhance the skin's immune defense by activating dendritic cells and macrophages, leading to a more robust response to pathogenic challenges and potentially reducing the incidence and severity of infammatory skin conditions [128]. Triterpenoids and infammatory pathways: the triterpenoids present in Reishi mushrooms exhibit an ability to modulate infammation through the suppression of NF-kB activation, which could play a role in mitigating chronic infammatory states associated with conditions such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis [130,131].…”

“…Allergenicity, on the other hand, may manifest as hypersensitivity reactions, such as contact dermatitis or respiratory allergies, particularly in occupational settings or among mushroom cultivators [13,127]. For instance, shiitake mushroom dermatitis is a well-documented condition caused by lentinan, a polysaccharide that can trigger an infammatory response upon skin contact [128]. Recent investigations into these efects have emphasized the importance of identifying the molecular mechanisms underlying these responses.…”