Porphyria Cutanea Tarda
Porphyria Cutanea Tarda usually abbreviated to PTC is a disease that affects the distribution of oxygen in the blood. PTC is actually a subtype of poriphyria, which is a genetic disease that affects the heme production of the body. The disease may also be acquired by some adults due to various hobbies like smoking and drinking. People with HIV and Hepatitis C diseases are also more likely to contract this complication.
Basically, PTC causes the production of fewer enzymes, which contributes to the creation of “Heme”, an important molecule that assists with the production of haemoglobin. Heme is actually the molecule that gives blood its color as well as helping with the distribution of oxygen in the body.
Symptoms of Porphyria Cutanea Tarda
PTC symptoms are mostly seen on the surface, specifically the skin. Since they basically affect the red color of blood, people with PTC showcase blisters all over the body from the arms, back of hands, the face and any other area that is directly hit by the sun. Since the color production is impacted, people with PTC are either too light or too dark with their skin being overly sensitive to scratches. Without treatment, PTC may spread all over the body, causing complications for the sufferer. The good news is that average individuals do not have to worry about the problem being fatal especially if they have it treated immediately after diagnosis.
Diagnosis of PTC is usually done through a urine test, stool test, blood test or through a biopsy.
Treatment of Porphyria Cutanea Tarda
There are two basic methods of addressing PTC. The first one is through the administration of medicine by a doctor while the second is through Phlebotomy. This is a process in which blood is drawn from the body so that the enzyme can work with the fewer amounts of iron in the body. After treatment, normalcy would start to occur around 6 to 12 months depending on how the person reacts to the treatment.
Unfortunately, PTC is not something that can be cured. Hence, sufferers would need to exercise constant treatment measures to ensure that no relapse would occur. The good news is that many people have managed to live normal lifestyles despite PTC. Current treatment methods have evolved enough that PTC is no longer a problem and may be easily controlled with care.
Of course, lifestyle changes are also prescribed to people who have PTC. They should avoid smoking and drinking as well as too much exposure to the sun. People with PTC are asked to wear clothes that would protect their skin as much as possible. Since skin is the most sensitive part of someone with PTC, it is also ideal not to use skin products with the nod of a doctor. Medications – whether oral or external – should be consulted with a professional before being taken as they may cause further flare-ups.
All in all, Porphyria Cutanea Tarda is not something that should depress people. With the right approach, living a full lifestyle is possible.
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