Mushroom toxicosis under-diagnosed
A case report recently published in the Journal of Small Animal Practice (JSAP) has highlighted the potential under-diagnosis of mushroom toxicosis in dogs.
Co-author of the report Lucy Barton, lecturer at the School of Life Sciences, University of Lincoln, says the condition is under-diagnosed in practices for a variety of reasons.
One issue is that owners usually only realise there is a problem when clinical signs become apparent, by which time the ingested material is unknown, and cases are recorded as haemorrhagic gastroenteritis of unknown origin.
The report highlights concerns that severity of clinical signs and limited information could lead to a grave prognosis, resulting in the animal being euthanised. The study aimed to encourage treatment of animals who may otherwise have been euthanised due to serious clinical signs.
The case report describes the presentation, investigation and management of five dogs, all of which showed clinical signs consistent with mushroom toxicosis. Four of the five dogs received appropriate treatment and made a full recovery, despite being presented with life-threatening cardiovascular or neurological compromise.
An important finding of the study was the elevation of serum and/or pancreatic lipase levels in all cases tested. This indicates that the test could be used in practice as a potential indicator of mushroom toxicity in cases where ingestion history is unknown but clinical signs are consistent with mushroom toxicosis.
The study aimed to raise awareness of mushroom toxicosis as a possible cause of acute clinical signs, allowing
veterinary surgeons to then make a presumptive diagnosis, giving a more accurate - and positive - prognosis and treatment.
Authors J Hall and Lucy Barton, believe it to be vital for both vets and owners to understand the dangers of exposure, and the fast response where appropriate treatment is used.
The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) is inviting applications from veterinary students to attend a one-week extramural studies (EMS) placement in July 2026.
