Porphyria cutanea tarda associated with Cys282Tyr mutation in HFE gene in hereditary hemochromatosis: a case report and review of the literature

Cutis. 2007 Nov;80(5):415-8.

Abstract

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.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Hemochromatosis / complications
  • Hemochromatosis / diagnosis
  • Hemochromatosis / genetics*
  • Hemochromatosis Protein
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I / genetics*
  • Humans
  • Iron / metabolism*
  • Membrane Proteins / genetics*
  • Mutation
  • Porphyria Cutanea Tarda / complications
  • Porphyria Cutanea Tarda / diagnosis
  • Porphyria Cutanea Tarda / genetics*

Substances

  • HFE protein, human
  • Hemochromatosis Protein
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I
  • Membrane Proteins
  • Iron