Porphyria cutanea tarda: an under-recognised manifestation of haemochromatosis

Abstract

We present a case of a woman who presented with a photosensitive skin rash and blisters on her extremities which did not improve with steroids. These were associated with polyarthralgia and a deranged liver function test on her admission. Further workup revealed that the patient has an undiagnosed porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT) and hereditary haemochromatosis. The patient later underwent regular venesections which improved her condition. This case report not only illustrates the challenge in diagnosing PCT but also aims to highlight the association between PCT and hereditary haemochromatosis.