Cortinariuscontaining

Cortinariuscontaining refers to mushrooms within the genus Cortinarius that contain the nephrotoxin orellanine. Cortinarius is a large and diverse group of mushrooms found in forests around the world, often distinguished by a partial veil that leaves a cobweb-like cortina on young fruiting bodies. Some species in this genus produce orellanine, a potent toxin that specifically damages the kidneys.

The best known orellanine-containing species are Cortinarius rubellus (the deadly webcap) and Cortinarius orellanus (the fool’s webcap). These mushrooms are not reliably distinguishable from many edible species by appearance alone, and identification by non-experts is unsafe. Orellanine can cause serious kidney injury, and there is no widely available antidote.

Clinical features typically involve a delayed course. After ingestion, initial gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain may occur but do not reliably predict kidney toxicity. A latent period of several days to weeks is common, followed by signs of kidney damage, including reduced urine output, swelling, electrolyte disturbances, and potential progression to acute renal failure. The severity and outcome vary; some cases require long-term dialysis, and recovery can be incomplete.

Diagnosis is based on history of wild mushroom ingestion, identification of the mushroom, and clinical findings of nephrotoxicity. There is no specific, widely used antidote for orellanine poisoning; treatment is supportive and may involve renal replacement therapy. Prevention hinges on avoiding consumption of wild Cortinarius mushrooms and using reliable identification methods. Public health messaging emphasizes prompt medical evaluation if mushroom ingestion is suspected.