Delayed photosensitivity in a child with erythropoietic protoporphyria : a case report

James Kiberd1, Laura Finlayson1,2

  • 1Dalhousie University, Halifax Regional Municipality, Canada.

Insights

Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is a rare genetic disorder causing painful photosensitivity due to protoporphyrin buildup. This case highlights a child with delayed EPP reactions, emphasizing careful pediatric evaluation for photosensitivity.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Biochemistry
  • Dermatology

Background:

  • Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is an inherited disorder characterized by protoporphyrin accumulation.
  • Clinical manifestations include painful, edematous cutaneous porphyria upon sun exposure.

Observation:

  • A four-year-old boy presented with delayed photosensitivity reactions, developing symptoms hours after sun exposure.
  • He exhibited swelling and a violaceous rash on hands and ears, with severe reactions requiring analgesia.
  • Waxy, depressed scars on the face were also noted.

Findings:

  • Laboratory results showed elevated total and free protoporphyrin levels.
  • Genetic testing confirmed a mutation in the FECH gene, diagnosing EPP.
  • The patient's delayed photosensitivity deviated from the typical rapid onset in EPP.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering EPP in pediatric patients with unusual photosensitivity.
  • Delayed reactions, though rare, necessitate thorough investigation for accurate diagnosis and management.
  • Understanding EPP variants aids in early detection and intervention for affected children.

Related Concept Videos

Data Reporting and Recording01:24

Data Reporting and Recording

Reporting and recording are crucial in data documentation. The timely, thorough, and accurate documentation of facts is essential when recording patient data. Failure to record findings during an assessment or interpretation of a problem will result in loss of information and make the patient document unreliable. The reader is left with general impressions if the information is not specific. A recording is documenting data of the individual's health information in a traceable, secure, and...
5.5K
Types of Reports I: Hands-off Report01:25

Types of Reports I: Hands-off Report

A hand-off report, also known as a change-of-shift report, is a crucial nursing process that ensures the smooth transition of patient care responsibilities between nursing staff.
Following are the key components and categories of hand-off reports:
Purpose and Process:
1.5K
Types of Reports II: Incident or Occurrence Report01:21

Types of Reports II: Incident or Occurrence Report

An Incident or Occurrence Report in a healthcare setting is a crucial document used to record any unexpected occurrence that may or may not have affected a patient, employee, or visitor. Such reports are critical to improving patient safety and include all details leading up to and including the event.
Purposes:
In the healthcare industry, reports play a crucial role in documenting incidents within an agency. The primary objective of these reports is to ensure patient safety, uphold the...
1.3K
Types of Reports III: Telephone and Verbal Reports01:26

Types of Reports III: Telephone and Verbal Reports

Telephone and Verbal Reports in healthcare settings are two communication methods for conveying therapeutic instructions from healthcare providers to nurses or other healthcare staff.
Here's an overview of each type:
Telephone Orders
1.0K