Laparoscopic cholecystectomy in a patient with erythropoietic protoporphyria

Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is an inherited defect in haem synthesis causing dangerous phototoxic reactions following exposure to wavelengths of light around 400nm. It can cause catastrophic post-operative complications following open surgery, in which environment various safety measures are now routinely employed. The dangers at laparoscopy have never been discussed in the literature, and nor have any specific precautions been recommended. We describe a 35 year old woman with gallstones undergoing prophylactic laparoscopic cholecystectomy to prevent future cholestasis precipitating porphyric liver failure. A pre-operative trial of the cutaneous effects of the laparoscopic light source was performed to assess the potential risk of use within the peritoneal cavity. The procedure was uneventful and the patient suffered no adverse reaction. We suggest that a trial of the effects of the laparoscopic light source on the skin of EPP patients provides valid reassurance regarding the safety of the laparoscopy for short surgical procedures.