Explore Over 11,000+ Conditions, Medications, and Symptoms.
Get a personalized feed by signing up for free.
All Conditions
Disorders of porphyrin metabolism
by Alike Medical Team ∙ Updated on June 13, 2023
This group contains additional names: - Porphyria
Porphyria is a group of disorders in which the chemical porphyrin builds up in the body. Normally, porphyrin binds iron and carries oxygen to the organs and tissues. High levels of porphyrin may affect the skin and nervous system. There are two types of porphyria- acute and cutaneous types. Porphyria cutanea tarda (PTC) is the most common acquired (cutaneous) form. It may be caused due to genetic enzyme deficiency, too much iron, liver disease, estrogen medications, smoking or excessive alcohol use.
16 people with Disorders of porphyrin metabolism are on Alike.
Symptoms of acute porphyria may include abdominal pain, chest pain, leg pain, back pain, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, red or brown urine, weakness, mental changes, breathing problems, urination problems, palpitations, high blood pressure and seizures. Symptoms of cutaneous porphyrias include sun sensitivity, erythema, swelling, changes in skin pigment, itching,excessive hair growth and red or brown urine.
Diagnosis Is based upon findings from medical history and physical examination. Further evaluation may include blood, urine, or stool testing as well as genetic testing.
Treatment depends on the type of porphyria and may include avoiding the triggers. In acute porphyrias, injections of hemin, and intravenous glucose may be given. For cutaneous porphyria, treatment may include phlebotomy , anti malarial drugs and vitamin D supplement for those who avoid sun exposure.
☝ We provide information on prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diagnosis, procedures and lab tests. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
National Institutes of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ MedlinePluse ∙ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
☝ All information has been reviewed by certified physicians from Alike
Alike is a transformative platform that goes beyond just bringing together patients; it meticulously connects individuals based on multiple critical factors, such as age, gender, comorbidities, medications, diet, and more, fostering a community of knowledge, support and empathy.
© 2020-2024 Alike, Inc