An unusual suicide attempt: a case with psychosis during an acute porphyric attack

Eur J Emerg Med. 2009 Apr;16(2):106-8. doi: 10.1097/MEJ.0b013e32830abe2e.

Abstract

The porphyrias are a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by abnormal heme biosynthesis. Although all subtypes are rare, acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is the most common form of the neuroporphyrias. Abdominal pain, peripheral neuropathy, and changes in cognitive function are the classical triad of an acute porphyric attack but the variability of the symptoms may interfere with the diagnosis of AIP. Delayed diagnosis and treatment of acute porphyric attacks, however, can be fatal or may cause long-term or permanent neurological damage. We hereby report a case of 45-year-old male with suicide attempt because of his psychotic symptoms during an AIP attack.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Alcoholism / complications
  • Emergency Service, Hospital
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Porphyria, Acute Intermittent / complications
  • Porphyria, Acute Intermittent / psychology*
  • Psychotic Disorders / diagnosis
  • Psychotic Disorders / etiology*
  • Suicide, Attempted / psychology*