Haemophilia, hepatitis and porphyria

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Hematology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Hemophilia A is a genetic bleeding disorder requiring blood product transfusions.
• Blood products carry a risk of transmitting viral infections like hepatitis B.
• Porphyria cutanea tarda is a metabolic disorder affecting the skin.

Observation:

• A patient with hemophilia A received blood product treatment.
• The patient subsequently contracted hepatitis B.
• Six years post-infection, the patient developed cutaneous manifestations including bullae and photosensitivity.

Findings:

• The patient presented with biochemical evidence consistent with porphyria cutanea tarda.
• Hepatitis B infection is a known risk factor for developing porphyria cutanea tarda.
• This case highlights a potential long-term complication of transfusion-transmitted hepatitis B.

Implications:

• Transfusion-transmitted hepatitis B can lead to chronic liver disease and secondary metabolic disorders like PCT.
• Awareness of this association is crucial for managing patients with hemophilia A.
• Further research may elucidate the precise mechanisms linking HBV and PCT development.