Erythropoietic protoporphyria

[Guest guest]

Dear fellow herbalists,

I have a patient that I am assisting with his hyperthyroid, he also has EPP

which I have found is a rare inherited metabolic disorder characterized by a

deficiency of the enzyme ferrochelatase (FECH).

Due to abnormally low levels of this enzyme, excessive amounts of protoporphyrin

accumulate in the plasma, red blood cells, and the liver.

The major symptom of this disorder is photosensitivity.

It affects mainly his arms.

He used to see a homeopath who was able to help with the severity of the

symptoms, he has asked me if Herbs could help..

So, my question is.. has anybody had any experience of this condition or have

any suggestions as to how I may be able to help?

It seems that the usual anti-itch creams tend not to help and the only thing

that is generally advised is betnovate which he avoids.

As I mentioned he has hyperthyroid and is also a type 1 Diabetic.

It has been recently found that he is B12 and Fe deficient and has had a Coeliac

Screen and a bowl Screen - both negative.

His digestion seems fine upon questioning.

Endoscopy is planned for February.

The EPP can often affect the liver but there seems to be no mention or testing

of this in his history so I assume that all is well there.

Any suggestions much appreciated

kind regards

x