Diseases
porphyria
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Porphyria refers to a group of disorders that result from a buildup of natural chemicals that produce porphyrin in your body. Porphyrins are essential for the function of hemoglobin — a protein in your red blood cells that links to porphyrin, binds iron, and carries oxygen to your organs and tissues.
Symptoms
- severe abdominal pain
- pain in your chest, legs or back
- constipation or diarrhea
- muscle pain, tingling, numbness, weakness or paralysis
- red or brown urine
Causes
- most forms of porphyria are inherited.
- porphyria cutanea tarda (pct) typically is acquired rather than inherited
Risk factors
- exposure to sunlight
- certain medications, including hormone drugs
- recreational drugs
Diagnosis
- urinalysis
- complete blood count (cbc)
- signs and symptoms.
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is porphyria?
Porphyria refers to a group of disorders that result from a buildup of natural chemicals that produce porphyrin in your body. Porphyrins are essential for the function of hemoglobin — a protein in your red blood cells that links to porphyrin, binds iron, and carries oxygen to your organs and tissues.
What are the symptoms of porphyria?
severe abdominal pain, pain in your chest, legs or back, constipation or diarrhea, muscle pain, tingling, numbness, weakness or paralysis, red or brown urine
What causes porphyria?
most forms of porphyria are inherited.; porphyria cutanea tarda (pct) typically is acquired rather than inherited
Which medicines are used for porphyria?
chlorpromazine
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