Menu Healthy Lifestyle Diseases & Conditions First Aid Symptoms Tests & Procedures Videos Definitions FAQs PorphyriaUpdated: 2017-06-13OverviewPorphyria is a group of metabolic disorders caused by an overaccumulation of the compound porphyrin in the body. Porphyrin plays a role in the function of a red blood cell protein (hemoglobin). SymptomsPorphyria affects the nervous system, skin, and other organs. Symptoms vary depending on the specific type. TreatmentsTreatment depends on the type of porphyria. © 1998-2022 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research(MFMER). All rights reserved. Terms of Use