Porphyria

Updated: 2017-06-13

Overview

Porphyria is a group of metabolic disorders caused by an overaccumulation of the compound porphyrin in the body. Porphyrin plays a role in the function of a red blood cell protein (hemoglobin).

Symptoms

Porphyria affects the nervous system, skin, and other organs. Symptoms vary depending on the specific type.

Treatments

Treatment depends on the type of porphyria.