Porphyria cutanea tarda in pregnancy: a case report

Porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT) is the most common disorder of porphyria metabolism in Europe and North America. The incidence in women appears to be increasing, perhaps as a result of widespread use of hormonal contraception. Treatment in pregnancy is largely supportive, but screening of the pregnant patient for antinuclear antibodies, diabetes, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis should be performed, as there is an association of PCT with these conditions. The baby should also be screened postpartum for PCT. Patients with PCT cope well with normal and operative delivery; however, an anaesthetic plan of management for labour and delivery is advisable.