Chronic Elevation of Liver Enzymes in Acute Intermittent Porphyria Initially Misdiagnosed as Autoimmune Hepatitis

Abstract EN

Autoimmune hepatitis is a disease characterized by an elevation of liver enzymes, as well as specific autoantibodies.

It is more common in women than men.

We describe a 32-year-old woman with elevated transaminases, autoantibodies, and a liver biopsy result suggestive of autoimmune hepatitis.

The indicated treatment was administered without showing a satisfactory response.

The patient had a family history of acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) so we decided to begin treatment with hematin, achieving a complete remission of the symptoms.

Acute intermittent porphyria is a rare condition characterized by neurovisceral symptoms, abdominal pain being the most common of them.

The disease has a higher prevalence among young women and certain European countries such as Sweden, Great Britain, and Spain.

A correct diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential because patients affected by AIP must have a strict followup due to the fatal outcome of the outbreaks.