[Porphyria cutanea tarda and hepatitis C virus infection]

Porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT) is a rare metabolic disorder characterized by an abnormal porphyrin metabolism and typical cutaneous lesions. Recently a strong association between PCT and hepatitis C virus (HCV) has been proposed. Studies in the south of Europe have shown high prevalences (53 to 91%) of HCV markers in patients with sporadic PCT. Six characteristic case stories are presented. We suggest routine hepatitis C serological testing in all patients with PCT, as HCV infection is a major predisposing factor for the disease.