CME

Continuing Medical Education

Porphyria Cutanea Tarda Associated With Cys282Tyr Mutation in HFE Gene in Hereditary Hemochromatosis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Young LC

Cutis. 2007;80:415-418.

Porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT) typically presents with complaints of fragile skin, dorsal hand vesicles, erosions, and scars, and increased levels of uroporphyrins. A case of PCT caused by iron overload associated with hereditary hemochromatosis (HH) is reported. The laboratory workup revealed the patient was homozygous for the Cys282Tyr mutation in the HFE (hemochromatosis) gene. The associated diagnosis of HH was critical because without early treatment, damage to vital organs and premature death could occur. This report highlights the important association of PCT with HH and reviews the role of key genetic and hormonal factors in iron regulation.

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