[Study of the gene of hemochromatosis in first degree relatives of patient with porphyria cutanea tarda].

BACKGROUND

Porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT) is characterized by a deficiency of uroprophyrinogen decarboxylase (URO-D). The activity of this enzyme is decreased in the presence of iron-dependent disorders. A relationship between the hepatic hemosiderosis, which is present in most patients with PCT, and the status of the hemochromatosis gene has been observed. Particularly, two mutations of the gene have been described, one of them (Cys282Tyr) is related to the iron overload and might influence on the development of the clinical signs of PCT.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

We have measured the transferrin saturation percentage and observed the status of the hemochromatosis gene in a patient diagnosed with PCT and in five of their relatives.

RESULTS

The proband and one sister had a marked increase of uroporphyrins and iron overload, and both had the mutation Cys282Tyr, which was also present in the mother.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study measuring iron overload and hemochromatosis gene mutations in relatives, and not in patients with PCT. We think that the study of this family justifies the systematic investigation of these parameters in all first degree relatives of patients with PCT, to identify subjects at risk, who can benefit from prophylactic measures and early therapy.