Citation

Altıntoprak AE, Ersel M, Bayrakci A. Eur. J. Emerg. Med. 2009; 16(2): 106-108.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2009, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

10.1097/MEJ.0b013e32830abe2e

PMID

19262206

Abstract

The porphyrias are a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by abnormal heme biosynthesis. Although all subtypes are rare, acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is the most common form of the neuroporphyrias. Abdominal pain, peripheral neuropathy, and changes in cognitive function are the classical triad of an acute porphyric attack but the variability of the symptoms may interfere with the diagnosis of AIP. Delayed diagnosis and treatment of acute porphyric attacks, however, can be fatal or may cause long-term or permanent neurological damage. We hereby report a case of 45-year-old male with suicide attempt because of his psychotic symptoms during an AIP attack.

Language: en

Keywords

Alcoholism; Emergency Service, Hospital; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Porphyria, Acute Intermittent; Psychotic Disorders; Suicide, Attempted