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Shiitake Mushroom Dermatitis: A Review

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An Erratum to this article was published on 01 October 2016

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.

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Correspondence to Marc Zachary Handler.

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No funding was received for the preparation of this review.

Conflict of interest

Mr. Stephany, Ms. Chung, Ms. Handler, Drs. Handler MZ, Handler G, and Schwartz have no conflicts of interest.

Additional information

An erratum to this article can be found at http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s40257-016-0225-1.

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Stephany, M.P., Chung, S., Handler, M.Z. et al. Shiitake Mushroom Dermatitis: A Review. Am J Clin Dermatol 17, 485–489 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40257-016-0212-6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40257-016-0212-6

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