Woman experiencing burning pain in legs discovers she has ancient ‘holy fire’ disease

A 24-year-old woman lost a toe after contracting a rare disease linked to medieval plagues. She initially experienced intense burning pain from her thighs to her toes, and within two days, she sought medical help. Doctors noticed her feet were discolored, cold to the touch, and lacked a detectable pulse in key arteries. A CT scan revealed narrowed arteries, and after receiving blood thinners, her condition improved. However, gangrene set in, leading to the amputation of one of her toes.

She was diagnosed with ergotism, historically known as “holy fire” or “St. Anthony’s Fire,” caused by consuming ergot, a toxic fungus found on wheat and rye. This condition can lead to hallucinations, convulsions, and gangrene.

Records of ergotism date back to 857 AD in Germany, with numerous outbreaks across Europe over the centuries. In 1596, German physician Wendelin Thelius first linked the disease to ergot poisoning, and by 1676, it was confirmed that the culprit was Claviceps purpurea, a fungus infecting rye. It wasn’t until 1778 that efforts were made to control outbreaks, including field drainage and grain cleaning.