Psychiatric manifestations in porphyria: A case report of psychosis

Abstract

Introduction

Porphyrias are rare inherited disorders due to specific enzyme abnormalities of heme biosynthesis. Among the hepatic forms, three of them are clinically characterized by acute abdominal pain and neuropathy, sometimes associated with psychiatric disorders like mood changes, organic brain syndrome and psychosis.

Case report

Here, we present a 38-year-old male patient with intermittent porphyria and chronic psychosis who was hospitalized. He had been treated by benzodiacepines and neuroleptic medication for several years. Exposure to certain drugs, dieting, starvation and infection may precipitate AIP attacks.

Discussion

Underlying organic causes of psychiatric disorders such as psychosis should be considered among patients with atypical symptoms and/or resistance to standard therapy.

Conclusion

It is important to increase awareness amongst psychiatric and neurological professionals with regard to certain inborn errors of metabolism. Early detection of porphyria may diminish morbidity and mortality rates, and perhaps heal some chronic atypical psychiatric illnesses.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.