ABSTRACT

Porphyrinogens are the building blocks of all the hemoproteins, such as hemoglobin and the cytochrome enzymes.

In certain inherited and acquired disease states, called the porphyrias, these intermediate metabolites of hemoglobin synthesis are increased. Porphyria cutanea tarda is the most common type of porphyria.

It is characterized by photosensitivity resulting in bullae, especially on sun-exposed parts. Liver diseases, kidney diseases, hepatitis C virus infection concomitant with porphyria cutanea tarda have been reported. We reported porphyria in a patient undergoing dialysis. (Turk J Dermatol 2010; 4: 75-7)