1
|
Balogun O, Nejak-Bowen K. Understanding Hepatic Porphyrias: Symptoms, Treatments, and Unmet Needs. Semin Liver Dis 2024. [PMID: 38772406 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1787076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
Hepatic porphyrias are a group of metabolic disorders that are characterized by overproduction and accumulation of porphyrin precursors in the liver. These porphyrins cause neurologic symptoms as well as cutaneous photosensitivity, and in some cases patients can experience life-threatening acute neurovisceral attacks. This review describes the acute hepatic porphyrias in detail, including acute intermittent porphyria, hereditary coproporphyria, and variegate porphyria, as well as the hepatic porphyrias with cutaneous manifestations such as porphyria cutanea tarda and hepatoerythropoietic porphyria. Each section will cover disease prevalence, clinical manifestations, and current therapies, including strategies to manage symptoms. Finally, we review new and emerging treatment modalities, including gene therapy through use of adeno-associated vectors and chaperone therapies such as lipid nanoparticle and small interfering RNA-based therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oluwashanu Balogun
- Department of Experimental Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Kari Nejak-Bowen
- Department of Experimental Pathology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Pittsburgh Liver Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Abstract
The porphyrias are a group of rare diseases, each resulting from a defect in a different enzymatic step of the heme biosynthetic pathway. They can be broadly divided into two categories, hepatic and erythropoietic porphyrias, depending on the primary site of accumulation of heme intermediates. These disorders are multisystemic with variable symptoms that can be encountered by physicians in any specialty. Here, we review the porphyrias and describe their clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management. We discuss novel therapies that are approved or in development. Early diagnosis is key for the appropriate management and prevention of long-term complications in these rare disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amy K Dickey
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA;
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rebecca Karp Leaf
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA;
| | - Manisha Balwani
- Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Jiao C, Liu W, Chen JH, Guo J, Qiao YM. Acute intermittent porphyria complicated with acute pancreatitis: A case report and literature review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e36036. [PMID: 37986312 PMCID: PMC10659594 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000036036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is a rare genetic disorder that affects porphyrin metabolism in the blood. The disease causes defects in specific enzymes in the body, which in turn leads to the accumulation of porphyrin metabolites. Patients may experience abdominal pain, neurological symptoms, muscle pain, and nausea, but it does not directly cause pancreatitis. PATIENT CONCERNS The patient is a young woman, 23 years old, who was admitted to our hospital with intermittent abdominal pain for 2 days, the pain was not fixed, episodic, with no obvious trigger, and 1 day before admission, the patient started to experience nausea and vomiting, with gastric contents as the vomitus, and similar symptoms had occurred many times in the past. Blood amylase 600 U/L, blood sodium 120.6 mmol/L, blood routine, and coagulation function results were normal; abdominal CT showed pancreatic swelling with unclear surrounding fat interstitial, acute pancreatitis was considered. The patient's urine was dark red, and the results of the qualitative urine porphyrin test were positive. DIAGNOSES AIP complicated with acute pancreatitis. INTERVENTION Relief of symptoms, control of pain, correction of electrolyte disturbances, and high-carbohydrate therapy. OUTCOMES The patient was discharged with complete symptomatic relief after 10 days of high-carbohydrate therapy. LESSONS AIP complicated with acute pancreatitis is very rare. Treatment of AIPs aims to control acute attacks and prevent potential triggers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Jiao
- Department of General Surgery, Bethune International Peace Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Department of General Surgery, Bethune International Peace Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, China
| | - Jin-Hui Chen
- Department of General Surgery, Bethune International Peace Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, China
| | - Jun Guo
- Department of General Surgery, Bethune International Peace Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, China
| | - Yi-Ming Qiao
- Department of General Surgery, Bethune International Peace Hospital, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050000, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Brito Avô L, Pereira L, Oliveira A, Ferreira F, Filipe P, Coelho Rodrigues I, Couto E, Ferreira F, Airosa Pardal A, Morgado P, Moreira S. Portuguese Consensus on Acute Porphyrias: Diagnosis, Treatment, Monitoring and Patient Referral. ACTA MEDICA PORT 2023; 36:753-764. [PMID: 37924314 DOI: 10.20344/amp.20323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
Acute porphyrias are a group of rare genetic metabolic disorders, caused by a defect in one of the enzymes involved in the heme biosynthesis, which results in an abnormally high accumulation of toxic intermediates. Acute porphyrias are characterized by potentially life-threatening attacks and, for some patients, by chronic manifestations that negatively impact daily functioning and quality of life. Clinical manifestations include a nonspecific set of gastrointestinal, neuropsychiatric, and/or cutaneous symptoms. Effective diagnostic methods are widely available, but due to their clinical heterogeneity and non-specificity, many years often elapse from symptom onset to diagnosis of acute porphyrias, delaying the treatment and increasing morbidity. Therefore, increased awareness of acute porphyrias among healthcare professionals is paramount to reducing disease burden. Treatment of acute porphyrias is centered on eliminating the potential precipitants, symptomatic treatment, and suppressing the hepatic heme pathway, through the administration of hemin or givosiran. Moreover, properly monitoring patients with acute porphyrias and their relatives is fundamental to preventing acute attacks, hospitalization, and long-term complications. Considering this, a multidisciplinary panel elaborated a consensus paper, aiming to provide guidance for an efficient and timely diagnosis of acute porphyrias, and evidence-based recommendations for treating and monitoring patients and their families in Portugal. To this end, all authors exhaustively reviewed and discussed the current scientific evidence on acute porphyrias available in the literature, between November 2022 and May 2023.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luís Brito Avô
- Serviço de Medicina Interna. Hospital CUF Tejo. Lisboa; Unidade de Doenças Raras. Hospital CUF Tejo. Lisboa; Nucleo de Estudos de Doenças Raras da Sociedade Portuguesa de Medicina Interna. Lisboa. Portugal
| | - Luísa Pereira
- Nucleo de Estudos de Doenças Raras da Sociedade Portuguesa de Medicina Interna. Lisboa; Unidade de Cuidados Paliativos. Hospital CUF Tejo. Lisboa. Portugal
| | - Anabela Oliveira
- Serviço de Medicina I. Centro de Referência de Doenças Hereditárias do Metabolismo. Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte. Lisboa. Portugal
| | - Filipa Ferreira
- Unidade de Rastreio Neonatal, Metabolismo e Genética. Departamento de Genética Humana. Instituto Nacional de Saúde Doutor Ricardo Jorge. Porto. Portugal
| | - Paulo Filipe
- Unidade de Investigação de Dermatologia. Instituto de Medicina Molecular João Lobo Antunes. Lisboa. Portugal
| | - Inês Coelho Rodrigues
- Serviço de Gastrenterologia. Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Lisboa Norte. Lisboa. Portugal
| | - Eduarda Couto
- Departamento de Medicina Interna. Serviço de Hematologia Clínica. Centro Hospitalar Póvoa de Varzim - Vila do Conde. Póvoa de Varzim. Portugal
| | - Fátima Ferreira
- Serviço de Hematologia Clínica. Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de São João. Porto. Portugal
| | - André Airosa Pardal
- Serviço de Hematologia Clínica. Centro Hospitalar Universitário de São João. Porto. Portugal
| | - Pedro Morgado
- Instituto de Investigação em Ciências da Vida e Saúde. Escola de Medicina. Universidade do Minho. Braga; Laboratório Associado do Governo Português ICVS/3B's. Braga/Guimarães; Serviço de Psiquiatria. Hospital de Braga. Braga. Portugal
| | - Sónia Moreira
- Nucleo de Estudos de Doenças Raras da Sociedade Portuguesa de Medicina Interna. Lisboa; Serviço de Medicina Interna. Centro de Referência de Doenças Hereditárias do Metabolismo. Centro Hospitalar e Universitário de Coimbra. Coimbra; Faculdade de Medicina. Universidade de Coimbra. Coimbra. . Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lai J, Zhong Z, Lai Z, Liu X. An Analysis and Literature Review of a Family Case of Acute Intermittent Porphyria With Initial Symptoms of Epileptic Seizure. Cureus 2023; 15:e45736. [PMID: 37872925 PMCID: PMC10590279 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.45736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is the most common form of acute porphyria and is characterized by acute onset and recurrent episodes. Clinical presentation frequently initiates with gastrointestinal symptoms and is often misdiagnosed or delayed secondary to nonspecific symptoms. Acute porphyria with epilepsy as the primary symptom is a very unusual or unexpected manifestation. This family case found an unexpected association between acute porphyria and seizures. This patient is a 33-year-old woman whose initial symptom was symptomatic epilepsy, followed by significant abdominal pain. After excluding infection, immunity, and other factors, whole exome sequencing analysis showed the presence of c.22dupG mutation in the HMBS gene and the patient was finally diagnosed with AIP. Her symptoms significantly improved after receiving high-glucose and high-carbohydrate load treatment. This case report is rare and suggests that for patients who experience epileptic seizures coupled with complaints related to the abdomen, the possibility of porphyria should be specially considered in the differential diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinxing Lai
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Ganzhou Hospital of Nanchang University, Ganzhou, CHN
| | - Zhenzhou Zhong
- Emergency Department, The Affiliated Ganzhou Hospital of Nanchang University, Ganzhou, CHN
| | - Zhaohui Lai
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Ganzhou Hospital of Nanchang University, Ganzhou, CHN
| | - Xianghong Liu
- Department of Neurology, The Affiliated Ganzhou Hospital of Nanchang University, Ganzhou, CHN
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Patel P, Midha S, Shukla S, Dhamija D, Bello AO, Khan S. Evaluating the Efficacy of a Small Interfering Ribonucleic Acid Molecule, Givosiran, in Treating Acute Intermittent Porphyria: A Systematic Review. Cureus 2023; 15:e40585. [PMID: 37469824 PMCID: PMC10353265 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.40585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is a severe multiorgan dysfunction disorder that can be fatal if not treated promptly. The newest treatment modality involving small interfering RNA (siRNA) molecules, givosiran, is administered for AIP. Although it has very beneficial effects in treating attacks of AIP, it comes with an extensive side effect profile that is not fully understood or studied. Hence, this novel drug model treatment's risk-benefit evaluation is still necessary. For relevant medical literature, we explored medical databases such as PubMed/Medline, PubMed Central, Cochrane Library, Internet Archive Scholar, Google Scholar, and Wiley Online Library. The selected papers were screened based on eligibility criteria and filtered through quality appraisal tools, and 13 finalized research papers were included in the study. Of the 13 identified papers, three were clinical trials, and 10 were review articles. The selected papers all discussed the effectiveness and side effects of givosiran in acute and recurrent attacks of AIP. The research papers showed decreased rates of acute attacks of AIP with givosiran and terminating recurrent attacks. But there are certain non-serious side effects, like fatigue and nausea. Also, there are some severe side effects, like pain. There is limited information on renal and liver function impairment using givosiran and the use of givosiran in patients with kidney and liver disease, for which further studies are required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Priyansh Patel
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
- Internal Medicine, Medical College Baroda, Baroda, IND
| | - Sidharth Midha
- Radiology, Bharati Vidyapeeth University, Pune, IND
- Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Surmai Shukla
- Medicine and Surgery, Qingdao University College of Medical Science, Qingdao, CHN
- Medicine and Surgery, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Divyanshu Dhamija
- Medicine, Government Medical College Amritsar, Amritsar, IND
- Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Adedamola O Bello
- Psychiatry, St. Martinus University, Pontiac, USA
- Psychiatry, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Safeera Khan
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Wang B, Bonkovsky HL, Lim JK, Balwani M. AGA Clinical Practice Update on Diagnosis and Management of Acute Hepatic Porphyrias: Expert Review. Gastroenterology 2023; 164:484-491. [PMID: 36642627 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2022.11.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
DESCRIPTION The acute hepatic porphyrias (AHP) are rare, inborn errors of heme-metabolism and include acute intermittent porphyria, hereditary coproporphyria, variegate porphyria, and porphyria due to severe deficiency of 5-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase. Acute intermittent porphyria is the most common type of AHP, with an estimated prevalence of patients with symptoms of approximately 1 in 100,000. The major clinical presentation involves attacks of severe pain, usually abdominal and generalized, without peritoneal signs or abnormalities on cross-sectional imaging. Acute attacks occur mainly in women in their childbearing years. AHP should be considered in the evaluation of all patients, and especially women aged 15-50 years with recurrent severe abdominal pain not ascribable to common causes. The screening tests of choice include random urine porphobilinogen and δ-aminolevulinic acid corrected to creatinine. All patients with elevations in urinary porphobilinogen and/or δ-aminolevulinic acid should initially be presumed to have AHP. The cornerstones of management include discontinuation of porphyrinogenic drugs and chemicals, administration of oral or intravenous dextrose and intravenous hemin, and use of analgesics and antiemetics. Diagnosis of AHP type can be confirmed after initial treatment by genetic testing for pathogenic variants in HMBS, CPOX, PPOX, and ALAD genes. AHP is also associated with chronic symptoms and long-term risk of systemic arterial hypertension, chronic renal and liver disease, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Patients who have recurrent acute attacks (4 or more per year) should be considered for prophylactic therapy with intravenous hemin or subcutaneous givosiran. Liver transplantation is curative and reserved for patients with intractable symptoms who have failed other treatment options. METHODS This expert review was commissioned and approved by the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) Institute Clinical Practice Updates Committee (CPUC) and the AGA Governing Board to provide timely guidance on a topic of high clinical importance to the AGA membership, and underwent internal peer review by the CPUC and external peer review through standard procedures of Gastroenterology. These Best Practice Advice (BPA) statements were drawn from a review of the published literature and from expert opinion. Because systematic reviews were not performed, these BPA statements do not carry formal ratings of the quality of evidence or strength of the presented considerations. Best Practice Advice Statements BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 1: Women aged 15-50 years with unexplained, recurrent severe abdominal pain without a clear etiology after an initial workup should be considered for screening for an AHP. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 2: Initial diagnosis of AHP should be made by biochemical testing measuring δ-aminolevulinic acid, porphobilinogen, and creatinine on a random urine sample. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 3: Genetic testing should be used to confirm the diagnosis of AHP in patients with positive biochemical testing. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 4: Acute attacks of AHP that are severe enough to require hospital admission should be treated with intravenous hemin, given daily, preferably into a high-flow central vein. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 5: In addition to intravenous hemin, management of acute attacks of AHP should include pain control, antiemetics, management of systemic arterial hypertension, tachycardia, and hyponatremia, and hypomagnesemia, if present. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 6: Patients should be counseled to avoid identifiable triggers that may precipitate acute attacks, such as alcohol and porphyrinogenic medications. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 7: Prophylactic heme therapy or givosiran, administered in an outpatient setting, should be considered in patients with recurrent attacks (4 or more per year). BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 8: Liver transplantation for AHP should be limited to patients with intractable symptoms and significantly decreased quality of life who are refractory to pharmacotherapy. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 9: Patients with AHP should be monitored annually for liver disease. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 10: Patients with AHP, regardless of the severity of symptoms, should undergo surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma, beginning at age 50 years, with liver ultrasound every 6 months. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 11: Patients with AHP on treatment should undergo surveillance for chronic kidney disease annually with serum creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate. BEST PRACTICE ADVICE 12: Patients should be counseled on the chronic and long-term complications of AHP, including neuropathy, chronic kidney disease, hypertension, and hepatocellular carcinoma, and need for long-term monitoring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruce Wang
- Department of Medicine and Division of Gastroenterology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California.
| | - Herbert L Bonkovsky
- Section of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Joseph K Lim
- Section of Digestive Diseases and Yale Liver Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Manisha Balwani
- Departments of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Zübarioğlu T, Kıykım E, Aktuğlu-Zeybek Ç, Aktuglu Zeybek C. An Overview of Acute Hepatic Porphyrias: Clinical Implications, Diagnostic Approaches, and Management Strategies. Turk Arch Pediatr 2023; 58:3-9. [PMID: 36598205 PMCID: PMC9885782 DOI: 10.5152/turkarchpediatr.2022.22301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Porphyrias are inborn errors of heme biosynthesis pathway that result in neurovisceral and/ or cutaneous manifestations which occur with episodic attacks, usually accompanied by a multisystemic involvement. Acute hepatic porphyrias include acute intermittent porphyria, variegate porphyria, hereditary coproporphyria, and aminolevulinic acid dehydratase deficiency porphyria. Acute hepatic porphyrias may present with symptoms of an affected central, peripheral, and autonomic nervous system and are generally diagnosed in time of an acute neurovisceral attack. In children, clinical picture is more complicated and presents with neurological findings predominantly. First-line investigation should be the urinary porphobilinogen and aminolevulinic acid performance when acute hepatic porphyria is clinically suspected. Comprehensive testing including urine porphyrin separation, fluorescence scanning of diluted plasma at neutral pH, evaluation of fecal porphyrins, and measurement of erythrocyte porphobilinogen deaminase activity is indicated for confirmation or exclusion of the porphyria and define the type of acute hepatic porphyrias. The main aim of the treatment is to decrease aminolevulinic acid, porphobilinogen, and porphyrins by reducing hepatic ALAS1 activity. The first measure should always be the avoidance of any porphyrinogenic drugs. Hemin therapy should not be delayed in the treatment of a severe acute attack. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs and prophylactic hemin protocols can be used for selected cases with more than 4 attacks per year. Givosiran is a promising treatment option for severe cases.
Collapse
|
9
|
Cassiman D, Kauppinen R, Monroy S, Lee M, Bonkovsky HL, Thapar M, Guillén‐Navarro E, Minder A, Hale C, Sweetser MT, Ivanova A. EXPLORE B: A prospective, long-term natural history study of patients with acute hepatic porphyria with chronic symptoms. J Inherit Metab Dis 2022; 45:1163-1174. [PMID: 36069414 PMCID: PMC9825970 DOI: 10.1002/jimd.12551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
One-year data from EXPLORE Part A showed high disease burden and impaired quality of life (QOL) in patients with acute hepatic porphyria (AHP) with recurrent attacks. We report baseline data of patients who enrolled in EXPLORE Part B for up to an additional 3 years of follow-up. EXPLORE B is a long-term, prospective study evaluating disease activity, pain intensity, and QOL in patients with AHP with ≥1 attack in the 12 months before enrollment or receiving hemin or gonadotropin-releasing hormone prophylaxis. Data were evaluated in patients with more (≥3 attacks or on prophylaxis treatment) or fewer (<3 attacks and no prophylaxis treatment) attacks. Patients in the total population (N = 136), and more (n = 110) and fewer (n = 26) attack subgroups, reported a median (range) of 3 (0-52), 4 (0-52), and 1 (0-2) acute attacks, respectively, in the 12 months prior to the baseline visit. Pain, mood/sleep, digestive/bladder, and nervous system symptoms were each experienced by ≥80% of patients; most received hemin during attacks. Almost three-quarters of patients reported chronic symptoms between attacks, including 85% of patients with fewer attacks. Pain intensity was comparable among both attack subgroups; most patients required pain medication. All groups had diminished QOL on the EuroQol visual analog scale and the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality-of-life Questionnaire Core 30 versus population norms. Patients with AHP with recurrent attacks, even those having fewer attacks, experience a high disease burden, as evidenced by chronic symptoms between attacks and impaired QOL.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Cassiman
- Department of Gastroenterology‐Hepatology and Center for Metabolic DiseasesUniversity Hospital LeuvenLeuvenBelgium
| | - Raili Kauppinen
- Department of MedicineUniversity Hospital of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
| | - Susana Monroy
- Centro de Investigacion TraslacionalInstituto Nacional de Pediatría de MexicoMexico CityMexico
| | - Ming‐Jen Lee
- Department of NeurologyNational Taiwan University HospitalTaipeiTaiwan
| | - Herbert L. Bonkovsky
- Section on Gastroenterology and HepatologyWake Forest University/North Carolina Baptist Medical CenterWinston‐SalemNorth CarolinaUSA
| | - Manish Thapar
- Department of MedicineThomas Jefferson UniversityPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Encarna Guillén‐Navarro
- Medical Genetics Section, Virgen de la Arrixaca University Hospital, IMIB‐ArrixacaUniversidad de MurciaMurciaSpain
| | - Anna‐Elisabeth Minder
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal MedicineStadtspital ZürichZürichSwitzerland
| | - Cecilia Hale
- Department of Biometrics and Department of Clinical DevelopmentAlnylam PharmaceuticalsCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| | - Marianne T. Sweetser
- Department of Clinical DevelopmentAlnylam PharmaceuticalsCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
| | - Aneta Ivanova
- Porphyria Unit, Department of GastroenterologySt. Ivan Rilski University HospitalSofiaBulgaria
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Schulenburg-Brand D, Stewart F, Stein P, Rees D, Badminton M. Update on the diagnosis and management of the autosomal dominant acute hepatic porphyrias. J Clin Pathol 2022; 75:jclinpath-2021-207647. [PMID: 35584894 DOI: 10.1136/jclinpath-2021-207647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The autosomal dominant acute hepatic porphyrias (AHPs), acute intermittent porphyria, hereditary coproporphyria (HCP) and variegate porphyria (VP), are low penetrance adult onset disorders caused by partial deficiency of enzymes of haem biosynthesis. All are associated with acute neurovisceral attacks, which are a consequence of the increased hepatic demand for haem triggered by hormones, stress, drugs or systemic infections which leads to upregulation of the pathway and overproduction of haem precursors 5-aminolaevulinic acid (ALA) and porphobilinogen (PBG). Acute episodes are characterised by severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, hyponatraemia, hypertension and tachycardia, behavioural disturbance and can progress to include seizures, peripheral motor neuropathy and posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome if undiagnosed and untreated. VP and HCP may also present with photocutaneous skin lesions either alone or during acute symptoms. Diagnosis involves demonstrating increased excretion of PBG in urine. Treatment focuses on removing or managing triggers, supportive treatment and suppressing the hepatic haem pathway by administering human haemin. Chronic complications include hypertension, chronic kidney disease and hepatocellular carcinoma. A small proportion of symptomatic patients with AHP progress to repeated acute attacks which require preventative therapy. A new RNA interference therapy has recently been licensed and is likely to become the treatment of choice in this situation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danja Schulenburg-Brand
- Medical Biochemistry and Immunology, University Hospital of Wales Healthcare NHS Trust, Cardiff, UK
| | - Felicity Stewart
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Penelope Stein
- Haematological Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
| | - David Rees
- Haematological Medicine, King's College London, London, UK
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Mike Badminton
- Medical Biochemistry and Immunology, University Hospital of Wales Healthcare NHS Trust, Cardiff, UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Sardh E, Harper P. RNAi therapy with givosiran significantly reduces attack rates in acute intermittent porphyria. J Intern Med 2022; 291:593-610. [PMID: 35067977 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Acute hepatic porphyria (AHP) is a group of inherited metabolic disorders that affect hepatic heme biosynthesis. They are associated with attacks of neurovisceral manifestations that can be life threatening and constitute what is considered an acute porphyria attack. Until recently, the sole specific treatment for acute porphyria attacks consisted of the intravenous administration of hemin. Although attacks are often sporadic, some patients develop recurrent acute attacks, with devastating effects on quality of life. Liver transplantation has historically been the sole curative treatment option. The clinical manifestations of AHP are attributed to the accumulation of the heme precursor 5-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) and porphobilinogen (PBG). Advances in molecular engineering have provided new therapeutic possibilities for modifying the heme synthetic pathway. We reviewed the background and current status of AHP treatment using liver-directed small interfering RNA targeting ALAS1. The therapeutic aim was to normalize the levels of ALAS1, which is highly upregulated during acute porphyria attacks. Givosiran is now an approved drug for use in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older. The results of clinical trials have shown that givosiran treatment leads to a rapid and sustained reduction of ALAS1 mRNA, decreased heme precursor levels, and a decreased rate of acute attacks compared with placebo. The clinical trials (phases I, II, and III) were all randomized and placebo controlled. Many patients enrolled in the initial clinical trials have continued treatment in open label extension and extended/compassionate-use programs in countries where givosiran is not yet commercially available.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eliane Sardh
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Centre for Inherited Metabolic Diseases, Porphyria Centre Sweden, Department of Endocrinology, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Pauline Harper
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Centre for inherited Metabolic Diseases, Porphyria Centre Sweden., Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Marcacci M, Ricci A, Cuoghi C, Marchini S, Pietrangelo A, Ventura P. Challenges in diagnosis and management of acute hepatic porphyrias: from an uncommon pediatric onset to innovative treatments and perspectives. Orphanet J Rare Dis 2022; 17:160. [PMID: 35392955 PMCID: PMC8991793 DOI: 10.1186/s13023-022-02314-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute hepatic porphyrias (AHPs) are a family of four rare genetic diseases resulting from a deficiency in one of the enzymes involved in heme biosynthesis. AHP patients can experience potentially life-threatening acute attacks, characterized by severe abdominal pain, along with other signs and symptoms including nausea, mental confusion, hyponatraemia, hypertension, tachycardia and muscle weakness. Some patients also experience chronic manifestations and long-term complications, such as chronic pain syndrome, neuropathy and porphyria-associated kidney disease. Most symptomatic patients have only a few attacks in their lifetime; nevertheless, some experience frequent attacks that result in ongoing symptoms and a significant negative impact on their quality of life (QoL). Initial diagnosis of AHP can be made with a test for urinary porphobilinogen, \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}
\usepackage{amsmath}
\usepackage{wasysym}
\usepackage{amsfonts}
\usepackage{amssymb}
\usepackage{amsbsy}
\usepackage{mathrsfs}
\usepackage{upgreek}
\setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt}
\begin{document}$$\delta$$\end{document}δ-aminolaevulinic acid and porphyrins using a single random (spot) sample. However, diagnosis is frequently missed or delayed, often for years, because the clinical symptoms of AHP are non-specific and mimic other more common disorders. Delayed diagnosis is of concern as some commonly used medications can trigger or exacerbate acute attacks, and untreated attacks can become severe, potentially leading to permanent neurological damage or fatality. Other attack triggers include hormonal fluctuations in women, stress, alcohol and low-calorie diets, which should be avoided in patients where possible. For the management of attacks, intravenous hemin is approved, whereas new therapeutic approaches are currently being investigated as a baseline therapy for prevention of attacks and improvement of QoL. Among these, a novel siRNA-based agent, givosiran, has shown very promising results in a recently concluded Phase III trial and has been approved for the management of AHPs. Here, we propose a challenging case study-with a very unusual pediatric onset of variegate porphyria-as a starting point to summarize the main clinical aspects (namely, clinical manifestations, diagnostic challenges, and therapeutic management) of AHPs, with a focus on the latest therapeutic innovations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Marcacci
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences for Children and Adults, Internal Medicine Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del Pozzo 71, 41124, Modena, Italy
| | - Andrea Ricci
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences for Children and Adults, Internal Medicine Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del Pozzo 71, 41124, Modena, Italy
| | - Chiara Cuoghi
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences for Children and Adults, Internal Medicine Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del Pozzo 71, 41124, Modena, Italy
| | - Stefano Marchini
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences for Children and Adults, Internal Medicine Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del Pozzo 71, 41124, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonello Pietrangelo
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences for Children and Adults, Internal Medicine Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del Pozzo 71, 41124, Modena, Italy
| | - Paolo Ventura
- Department of Surgical and Medical Sciences for Children and Adults, Internal Medicine Unit, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del Pozzo 71, 41124, Modena, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Kuo HC, Lin CN, Tang YF. Prophylactic Heme Arginate Infusion for Acute Intermittent Porphyria. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:712305. [PMID: 34690757 PMCID: PMC8526969 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.712305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of long-term weekly prophylactic heme arginate (HA) infusions in reducing attack frequency and severity in female AIP patients. Methods: We report the results of five female AIP patients with frequent recurrent attacks (>9/year) before and after institution of weekly prophylaxis with heme arginate (3 mg/kg body weight). All five cases had confirmed disease-associated mutations in the porphobilinogen deaminase gene, and all had received genetic and clinical counseling about AIP. Results: In the five included patients, average annual attack rate (AAR) in the year prior to HA prophylaxis was 11.82 (range 9.03–17.06), and average total HA usage was 32.60 doses (range: 13.71–53.13). After 2.58–14.64 years of HA prophylaxis, average AAR was reduced to 2.23 (range 0.00–5.58), and attack severity (i.e., doses required per attack) was reduced from 2.81 to 1.39 doses/attack. Liver and renal function remained stable during weekly administration of HA prophylaxis. The most common complications were port-A catheter-related events. No other complications or safety concerns occurred with long-term use of HA prophylaxis. Conclusion: Our study demonstrated women with AIP receiving weekly prophylactic HA infusions resulted in fewer episodes that required acute HA treatment while maintaining stable renal and liver function. Weekly prophylactic HA infusions effectively prevent frequent porphyric attacks and reduce attack severity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hung-Chou Kuo
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital-Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and College of Medicine, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Ni Lin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan.,Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Fen Tang
- Department of Pharmacy, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
de Souza PVS, Badia BDML, Farias IB, Pinto WBVDR, Oliveira ASB. Acute Hepatic Porphyria: Pathophysiological Basis of Neuromuscular Manifestations. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:715523. [PMID: 34646118 PMCID: PMC8502968 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.715523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute hepatic porphyria represents a rare, underdiagnosed group of inherited metabolic disorders due to hereditary defects of heme group biosynthesis pathway. Most patients have their definite diagnosis after several years of complex and disabling clinical manifestations and commonly after life-threatening acute neurovisceral episodes or severe motor handicap. Many key studies in the last two decades have been performed and led to the discovery of novel possible diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers and to the development of new therapeutic purposes, including small interfering RNA-based therapy, specifically driven to inhibit selectively delta-aminolevulinic acid synthase production and decrease the recurrence number of severe acute presentation for most patients. Several distinct mechanisms have been identified to contribute to the several neuromuscular signs and symptoms. This review article aims to present the current knowledge regarding the main pathophysiological mechanisms involved with the acute and chronic presentation of acute hepatic porphyria and to highlight the relevance of such content for clinical practice and in decision making about therapeutic options.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Victor Sgobbi de Souza
- Division of Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bruno de Mattos Lombardi Badia
- Division of Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Igor Braga Farias
- Division of Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Acary Souza Bulle Oliveira
- Division of Neuromuscular Diseases, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Federal University of São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Acute hepatic porphyrias (AHP) are a group of rare diseases that are characterized by episodic acute neurovisceral pain episodes caused by abnormal accumulation of the neurotoxic porphyrin precursor delta-aminolevulinic acid (ALA). Patient with frequent recurrent acute attacks have been difficult to treat and these patients sometimes require liver transplantation. Recent developments in small interfering RNA (siRNA)-based therapy led to the development of an effective prophylactic treatment for patients with frequent recurrent attacks. This review will describe treatment options for AHP and highlight management in light of new treatment option. RECENT FINDINGS Givosiran is a novel siRNA-based therapy targeted specifically to hepatocytes to inhibit ALA synthase 1, the first and rate-limiting step in heme biosynthesis. Patients with frequent recurrent attacks treated with givosiran had durable normalization of ALA and significantly reduced numbers of acute attacks and need for hemin treatment. The overall safety profile for givosiran was comparable with placebo and the drug was recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for treatment of AHP patients. SUMMARY Givosiran is an effective treatment for prevention of acute porphyria attacks in AHP patients with frequent recurrent attacks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruce Wang
- Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Souza PVSD, Badia BDML, Farias IB, Gonçalves EA, Pinto WBVDR, Oliveira ASB. Acute hepatic porphyrias for the neurologist: current concepts and perspectives. ARQUIVOS DE NEURO-PSIQUIATRIA 2021; 79:68-80. [PMID: 33656101 DOI: 10.1590/0004-282x20200096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute hepatic porphyrias represent an expanding group of complex inherited metabolic disorders due to inborn errors of metabolism involving heme biosynthesis. OBJECTIVE We aimed to review the main clinical and therapeutic aspects associated with acute hepatic porphyrias. METHODS The authors provided a wide non-systematic review of current concepts and recently acquired knowledge about acute hepatic porphyrias. RESULTS Acute neurovisceral attacks are the most common and life-threatening presentation of this group and are often considered the main clinical manifestation by clinicians during differential diagnosis and the start of proper diagnostic work-up for acute porphyrias. However, atypical presentations with central nervous system involvement, neuropsychiatric disturbances, and some subtypes with photosensitivity usually make the definite diagnosis difficult and late. Early therapeutic interventions are essential during emergency treatment and intercritical periods to avoid recurrent severe presentations. The availability of new disease-modifying therapeutic proposals based on small interfering RNA (siRNA)-based therapies, complementary to the classic intravenous glucose infusion and hemin-based treatments, emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and genetic counseling of patients. CONCLUSIONS This review article highlights the main biochemical, pathophysiological, clinical, and therapeutic aspects of acute hepatic porphyrias in clinical practice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Victor Sgobbi de Souza
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Division of Neuromuscular Diseases, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Bruno de Mattos Lombardi Badia
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Division of Neuromuscular Diseases, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Igor Braga Farias
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Division of Neuromuscular Diseases, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Augusto Gonçalves
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Division of Neuromuscular Diseases, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| | | | - Acary Souza Bulle Oliveira
- Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Division of Neuromuscular Diseases, São Paulo SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Gouya L, Ventura P, Balwani M, Bissell DM, Rees DC, Stölzel U, Phillips JD, Kauppinen R, Langendonk JG, Desnick RJ, Deybach J, Bonkovsky HL, Parker C, Naik H, Badminton M, Stein PE, Minder E, Windyga J, Bruha R, Cappellini MD, Sardh E, Harper P, Sandberg S, Aarsand AK, Andersen J, Alegre F, Ivanova A, Talbi N, Chan A, Querbes W, Ko J, Penz C, Liu S, Lin T, Simon A, Anderson KE. EXPLORE: A Prospective, Multinational, Natural History Study of Patients with Acute Hepatic Porphyria with Recurrent Attacks. Hepatology 2020; 71:1546-1558. [PMID: 31512765 PMCID: PMC7255459 DOI: 10.1002/hep.30936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Acute hepatic porphyria comprises a group of rare genetic diseases caused by mutations in genes involved in heme biosynthesis. Patients can experience acute neurovisceral attacks, debilitating chronic symptoms, and long-term complications. There is a lack of multinational, prospective data characterizing the disease and current treatment practices in severely affected patients. APPROACH AND RESULTS EXPLORE is a prospective, multinational, natural history study characterizing disease activity and clinical management in patients with acute hepatic porphyria who experience recurrent attacks. Eligible patients had a confirmed acute hepatic porphyria diagnosis and had experienced ≥3 attacks in the prior 12 months or were receiving prophylactic treatment. A total of 112 patients were enrolled and followed for at least 6 months. In the 12 months before the study, patients reported a median (range) of 6 (0-52) acute attacks, with 52 (46%) patients receiving hemin prophylaxis. Chronic symptoms were reported by 73 (65%) patients, with 52 (46%) patients experiencing these daily. During the study, 98 (88%) patients experienced a total of 483 attacks, 77% of which required treatment at a health care facility and/or hemin administration (median [range] annualized attack rate 2.0 [0.0-37.0]). Elevated levels of hepatic δ-aminolevulinic acid synthase 1 messenger ribonucleic acid levels, δ-aminolevulinic acid, and porphobilinogen compared with the upper limit of normal in healthy individuals were observed at baseline and increased further during attacks. Patients had impaired quality of life and increased health care utilization. CONCLUSIONS Patients experienced attacks often requiring treatment in a health care facility and/or with hemin, as well as chronic symptoms that adversely influenced day-to-day functioning. In this patient group, the high disease burden and diminished quality of life highlight the need for novel therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Gouya
- Centre de Référence Maladies Rares PorphyriesColombesFrance
- University of ParisParisFrance
- Laboratory of Excellence GR‐ExParisFrance
| | - Paolo Ventura
- Università degli Studi di Modena e Reggio EmiliaEmilia‐RomagnaItaly
| | | | | | - David C. Rees
- King’s College HospitalKing’s College LondonLondonUK
| | | | | | | | - Janneke G. Langendonk
- Porphyria CenterCenter for Lysosomal and Metabolic DiseaseDepartment of Internal MedicineErasmus MCUniversity Medical Center Rotterdamthe Netherlands
| | | | - Jean‐Charles Deybach
- Centre de Référence Maladies Rares PorphyriesColombesFrance
- University of ParisParisFrance
- Laboratory of Excellence GR‐ExParisFrance
| | - Herbert L. Bonkovsky
- Section on Gastroenterology & HepatologyWake Forest University/NC Baptist Medical CenterWinston‐SalemNC
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jerzy Windyga
- Department of Hemostatic Disorders and Internal MedicineInstitute of Hematology and Transfusion MedicineWarsawPoland
| | - Radan Bruha
- 4th Internal ClinicGeneral University HospitalCharles UniversityPragueCzech Republic
| | | | - Eliane Sardh
- Porphyria Centre Sweden, Centre for Inherited Metabolic DiseasesKarolinska Institutet, Karolinska University HospitalStockholmSweden
| | - Pauline Harper
- Porphyria Centre Sweden, Centre for Inherited Metabolic DiseasesKarolinska Institutet, Karolinska University HospitalStockholmSweden
| | - Sverre Sandberg
- Norwegian Porphyria CentreHaukeland University HospitalBergenNorway
| | - Aasne K. Aarsand
- Norwegian Porphyria CentreHaukeland University HospitalBergenNorway
| | - Janice Andersen
- Norwegian Porphyria CentreHaukeland University HospitalBergenNorway
| | | | | | - Neila Talbi
- Centre de Référence Maladies Rares PorphyriesColombesFrance
- University of ParisParisFrance
- Laboratory of Excellence GR‐ExParisFrance
| | - Amy Chan
- Alnylam PharmaceuticalsCambridgeMA
| | | | - John Ko
- Alnylam PharmaceuticalsCambridgeMA
| | | | | | - Tim Lin
- Alnylam PharmaceuticalsCambridgeMA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Anderson KE. Acute hepatic porphyrias: Current diagnosis & management. Mol Genet Metab 2019; 128:219-227. [PMID: 31311713 PMCID: PMC6911835 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymgme.2019.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Each of the four acute hepatic porphyrias is due to mutation of an enzyme in the heme biosynthetic pathway. The accumulation of pathway intermediates that occur most notably when these diseases are active is the basis for screening and establishing a biochemical diagnosis of these rare disorders. Measurement of enzyme activities and especially DNA testing also are important for diagnosis. Suspicion of the diagnosis and specific testing, particularly measurement of urinary porphobilinogen, are often delayed because the symptoms are nonspecific, even when severe. Urinary porphyrins are also measured, but their elevation is much less specific. If porphobilinogen is elevated, second line testing will establish the type of acute porphyria. DNA testing identifies the familial mutation and enables screening of family members. Management includes removal of triggering factors whenever possible. Intravenous hemin is the most effective treatment for acute attacks. Carbohydrate loading is sometimes used for mild attacks. Cyclic attacks, if frequent, can be prevented by a GnRH analogue. Frequent noncyclic attacks are sometime preventable by scheduled (e.g. weekly) hemin infusions. Long term complications may include chronic pain, renal impairment and liver cancer. Other treatments, including RNA interference, are under development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karl E Anderson
- The University of Texas Medical Branch, Department of Preventive Medicine and Community Health and Internal Medicine, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77555-1109, United States of America.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Fontanellas A, Ávila MA, Anderson KE, Deybach JC. Current and innovative emerging therapies for porphyrias with hepatic involvement. J Hepatol 2019; 71:422-433. [PMID: 31102718 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2019.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Porphyrias are rare inherited disorders caused by specific enzyme dysfunctions in the haem synthesis pathway, which result in abnormal accumulation of specific pathway intermediates. The symptoms depend upon the chemical characteristics of these substances. Porphyrins are photoreactive and cause photocutaneous lesions on sunlight-exposed areas, whereas accumulation of porphyrin precursors is related to acute neurovisceral attacks. Current therapies are suboptimal and mostly address symptoms rather than underlying disease mechanisms. Advances in the understanding of the molecular bases and pathogenesis of porphyrias have paved the way for the development of new therapeutic strategies. In this Clinical Trial Watch we summarise the basic principles of these emerging approaches and what is currently known about their application to porphyrias of hepatic origin or with hepatic involvement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Fontanellas
- Hepatology Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Spain. Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain.
| | - Matías A Ávila
- Hepatology Program, Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA), University of Navarra, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Navarra (IdiSNA), Pamplona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBEREHD), Spain. Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain
| | - Karl E Anderson
- Porphyria Laboratory & Center, Departments of Preventive Medicine and Community Health, and Internal Medicine (Division of Gastroenterology), University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Jean-Charles Deybach
- CRMR Porphyries France, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris (AP-HP), University Denis Diderot Paris 7, France; European Porphyria Network (EPNET)
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Sofie Lichtwarck Bjugn F, Storjord E, Kristensen RM, Brekke OL. Safe usage of bicalutamide and goserelin in a male patient with acute intermittent porphyria and prostate cancer. Scand J Urol 2019; 53:171-173. [PMID: 30714461 DOI: 10.1080/21681805.2018.1563628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Elin Storjord
- a Faculty of Health Sciences , UiT The Arctic University of Norway , Troms⊘ , Norway.,b Department of Laboratory Medicine , Nordland Hospital Trust , Bod⊘ , Norway
| | | | - Ole-Lars Brekke
- a Faculty of Health Sciences , UiT The Arctic University of Norway , Troms⊘ , Norway.,b Department of Laboratory Medicine , Nordland Hospital Trust , Bod⊘ , Norway
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Neeleman RA, Wagenmakers MAEM, Koole-Lesuis RH, Mijnhout GS, Wilson JHP, Friesema ECH, Langendonk JG. Medical and financial burden of acute intermittent porphyria. J Inherit Metab Dis 2018; 41:809-817. [PMID: 29675607 PMCID: PMC6133185 DOI: 10.1007/s10545-018-0178-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2017] [Revised: 03/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A small proportion of patients with acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) suffer from recurrent porphyric attacks, with a severely diminished quality of life. In this retrospective case-control study, the burden of disease is quantified and compared among three AIP patient subgroups: cases with recurrent attacks, cases with one or occasional attacks and asymptomatic carriers. METHODS Data from patient records and questionnaires were collected in patients between 1960 and 2016 at the Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands. We collected symptoms related to porphyria, porphyria related complications, attack frequency, hospitalisation frequency, hospitalisation days related to acute porphyric attacks, frequency of heme infusions and medical healthcare costs based on hospitalisations and heme therapy. RESULTS In total 11 recurrent AIP cases, 24 symptomatic AIP cases and 53 AIP carriers as controls were included. All recurrent patients reported porphyria related symptoms, such as pain, neurological and/or psychiatric disorders, and nearly all developed complications, such as hypertension and chronic kidney disease. In the recurrent cases group, the median lifelong number of hospitalisation days related to porphyric attacks was 82 days per patient (range 10-374), and they spent a median of 346 days (range 34-945) at a day-care facility for prophylactic heme therapy; total follow-up time was 243 person-years (PYRS). In the symptomatic non-recurrent group the median lifelong number of hospitalisation days related to porphyric attacks was 7 days per patient (range 1-78), total follow-up time was 528 PYRS. The calculated total medical healthcare cost for recurrent cases group was €5.8 million versus €0.3 million for the symptomatic cases group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rochus A. Neeleman
- 000000040459992Xgrid.5645.2Porphyria Center, Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Margreet A. E. M. Wagenmakers
- 000000040459992Xgrid.5645.2Porphyria Center, Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rita H. Koole-Lesuis
- 000000040459992Xgrid.5645.2Porphyria Center, Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - G. Sophie Mijnhout
- 0000 0001 0547 5927grid.452600.5Department of Internal Medicine, Isala Clinics, Zwolle, the Netherlands
| | - J. H. Paul Wilson
- 000000040459992Xgrid.5645.2Porphyria Center, Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Edith C. H. Friesema
- 000000040459992Xgrid.5645.2Porphyria Center, Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Janneke G. Langendonk
- 000000040459992Xgrid.5645.2Porphyria Center, Center for Lysosomal and Metabolic Disease, Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Jaramillo-Calle DA, Aguirre Acevedo DC. Acute Hepatic Porphyrias in Colombia: An Analysis of 101 Patients. JIMD Rep 2018; 44:65-72. [PMID: 30069833 PMCID: PMC6323027 DOI: 10.1007/8904_2018_125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2018] [Revised: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is minimal information available about acute hepatic porphyrias (AHPs) in developing countries. The aim of this study was to describe the demographics, clinical features, and mortality of AHPs in Colombia. PATIENTS AND METHODS 121 patients with presumed diagnosis of AHPs were reported in Colombia between 1944 and 2018. A pooled analysis of 53 patients with confirmed diagnosis was performed to evaluate the demographics, clinical features, and mortality of AHPs in the country. Selected variables were compared by periods (1952-2000 and 2001-2018). RESULTS Most attacks occurred in women (66%), with a women-to-man ratio of 39/14. 96% of the patients were diagnosed with AHPs between 15 and 40 years of age. Precipitants were identified in 71% of attacks and more than one precipitant in 41% of them. Drugs (85%) and infections (44%) were the most common precipitants. 11% of women had premenstrual attacks. Abdominal pain was the most common symptom (96%). Cortical blindness, posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome, and rhabdomyolysis were described. 70% of attacks were confirmed by qualitative test only. 67% of attacks were treated with intravenous heme. The use of heme increased from 4 to 85% in the last two decades. Mortality decreased about twofold in relation to the increase in the use of heme. Severe motor neuropathy was associated with increased mortality. Gonadorelin analogues, heme prophylaxis, and orthotopic liver transplantation have been used to prevent recurrent attacks. CONCLUSIONS Diagnosis and treatment of AHPs in Colombia have improved in recent decades. However, there are still important shortcomings to address.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel A Jaramillo-Calle
- Colombian Porphyria Research Group (PorfiCol), IPS Universitaria - Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia.
| | | |
Collapse
|