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Acute Hepatic Porphyria
Medical Questions » Acute Hepatic Porphyria
| Name: Acute Hepatic Porphyria |
| Also known as: |
| One of a number of different types of porphyria, which is an uncommon liver disease. |
Causes of Acute Hepatic Porphyria
An inherited disease that passes from one generation to the next but causes symptoms in only 10% of those affected. |
Symptoms of Acute Hepatic Porphyria
Symptoms develop at the time of puberty with vague abdominal pains, nausea, vomiting and abnormal sensations. As the disease progresses, the abdominal pains may become severe, but nothing abnormal can be found in the abdomen. In advanced cases, nerve pain, paralysis, personality changes and fits may occur. The urine turns a dark purple color, then brown, if left standing. Some patients may have the otherwise quiescent disease triggered by severe infections, starvation, some drugs or steroids. |
Tests for Acute Hepatic Porphyria
Diagnosed by special blood tests. |
Treatment for Acute Hepatic Porphyria
Treatment involves careful genetic counseling of families and avoiding factors (eg. crash diets, emotional stress, alcohol, certain drugs) that may precipitate an attack. Controlled by the use of a complex drug regime.
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Complications of Acute Hepatic Porphyria of its treatment
Liver damage, which may progress to liver failure or liver cancer (hepatoma), and nerve damage which may cause varying forms of paralysis. |
Likely Outcome of Acute Hepatic Porphyria
May be controlled, but not cured. Death may occur due to the paralysis of the muscles of breathing. |
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