It is possible that you have porphyria cutanea tarda. Essentially, it is an acquired disease, but some individuals have a genetic deficiency of the enzyme uroporphyrinogen decarboxylase.
Blisters develop on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the hands and face. The skin in these areas may blister or peel after minor trauma. Increased hair growth, as well as darkening and thickening of the skin, may also occur.
A blood test to measure porphyrins is used to make the diagnosis. Ask your doctor about being tested. Hope this helps.
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It is possible that you have porphyria cutanea tarda. Essentially, it is an acquired disease, but some individuals have a genetic deficiency of the enzyme uroporphyrinogen decarboxylase.
Blisters develop on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the hands and face. The skin in these areas may blister or peel after minor trauma. Increased hair growth, as well as darkening and thickening of the skin, may also occur.
A blood test to measure porphyrins is used to make the diagnosis. Ask your doctor about being tested. Hope this helps.
Maryann
November 17, 2011 - 6:50pmThis Comment
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