pseudo-porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT)

Introduction

A distinct syndrome with blisters & erosions indistinguishable from porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT).

Etiology

• drugs: naproxen, ibuprofen, tetracyclines, nalidixic acid, dapsone, amiodarone, bumetanide, furosemide, cyclosporine, etretinate, chlorthalidone, diazide, pyridoxine, oxaprozin, voriconazole, 5-fluorouracil
• chronic renal failure with hemodialysis
• tanning salon radiation (visible & UV-A)
• associated disorders
  • hepatoma
  • lupus erythematosus
  • sarcoidosis
  • Sjogren's syndrome
  • hepatitis C

Pathology

• subepidermal bullae
• little or no dermal inflammation

Clinical manifestations

• vesicles & tense bullae on normal-appearing skin
  • painful erosions from easily traumatized bullae
  • atrophic scars at sites of erosions
  • distribution: dorsa of hands & feet, nose
• fragile skin

More general terms

• skin disease (dermatologic disorder, dermatopathy, dermatosis)

Additional terms

• porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT)