Possible Side Effects and Nephrotoxicity Assessment of Systemic and Topical Use of Iranian Species of Reishi Derivatives in Skin Erosive Ulcers: An Animal Study

Introduction: Traditional uses of Reishi (Ganoderma), a medicinal mushroom having anti-inflammatory and wound-healing qualities, have been reported. The renal toxicity of topical and systemic Ganoderma obtained from Iran in wound healing is assessed in this study.Methods: This study involved 12 male Sprague-Dawley rats divided into three groups to evaluate Ganoderma effects on wound healing and renal toxicity. Group 2 was given Ganoderma aqueous extract by gavage, Group 3 was given topical Ganoderma oil, and Group 1 was left untreated. Histopathology evaluated both beneficial and negative effects on the skin and urinary system during the course of the one-month treatments. For a thorough tissue analysis, staining methods (Masson's trichrome and H&E) were used.Results: After one month of treatment, wound healing outcomes varied among the groups. The untreated group showed incomplete healing with purulent scabs, while the systemic (gavage) and topical treatment groups displayed fully healed wounds. However, systemic treatment led to kidney damage, including size and color changes, as well as tissue degradation. Microscopic and histological evaluations revealed edematous degeneration in systemic treatment but a more natural and organized tissue structure with topical treatment. Kidney histology confirmed toxicity in systemic administration, while topical treatment preserved normal kidney architecture and function.Conclusion: Topical Ganoderma is effective for skin wound healing and typically safe, however systemic administration (by gavage) may induce kidney damage. Clinical use should be overseen by specialists who take safety precautions, particularly for systemic administration.