Hepatic Porphyria

Porphyrins are pigments made by the liver and other tissues. They are involved in the formation of many important substances in the body, such as hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. Many genes are involved in the production of porphyrins. If one of these genes is mutated, hepatic porphyria may occur, resulting in an abnormal increase of pigments in the body. There are two types of porphyria -- cutaneous and acute.

It is important to note that genetic porphyria often is "silent," meaning that the genetic change causes symptoms only in the presence of certain environmental triggers, such as alcohol consumption, inadequate diet and certain medications, especially sedatives related to barbiturates, anti-seizure drugs, oral contraceptives, etc. Excess iron and estrogen play a role in some patients; and there also is a frequent association with hepatitis C liver disease.

Experts at UCSF Medical Center offer the most advanced diagnostic and treatment procedures for hepatic porphyria.

For information or to make an appointment, please call:
Liver Clinic at (415) 353-2318

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated August 29, 2007