[Mushroom ileus without previous intestinal obstruction].

A case is described of obstruction of the small bowel after consumption of 500 g edible mushrooms (Cantharellus cibarius). No fibrous bands or adhesions were found on laparotomy. When preparing the meal the mushrooms were not cut up, nor were they properly chewed due to the patient's defective dental prosthesis. 11 days after the meal the patient passed largely intact mushrooms. In retrospect the impacted mushrooms could be assumed on X-ray after barium meal. Since even without intra-abdominal adhesions impacted mushrooms can cause mechanical obstruction, it is recommended that mushrooms be cut up, chewed well and consumed only in moderate portions even when large quantities are available.