Poisoning by<i>Amanita phalloides</i>(“deathcap”) mushrooms in the Australian Capital Territory

Abstract

Amanita phalloides ("deathcap") mushrooms are widespread in south-eastern Australia. Seven patients presented to hospital in the Australian Capital Territory with poisoning by this mushroom between 1988 and 1998. Three developed hepatoxicity and one died. Because A. phalloides is becoming more widespread, increased community and medical awareness is needed to reduce the frequency and morbidity of poisoning.