Porphyrins are intermediate products in the production of haem which involves at least eight enzymes which are highly sensitive to toxins. Secondary porphyrias (porphyrinurias) are defined as porphyrias that occur without a genetic defect of haem synthesis. These porphyrias are associated with environmental exposure to toxins and it has been hypothesised that several health disorders have abnormal porphyrin levels associated with chemical exposure. These conditions include chronic fatigue, multiple chemical sensitivities, learning and behavioural disorders as well as mental conditions.
The porphyrin test is a powerful biomarker of environmental toxicity. Porphyrins are intermediate products in the production of haem which involves at least eight enzymes which are highly sensitive to toxins. When certain chemicals are present in the body these enzymes are inhibited, particular porphyrins build up and a distinctive pattern of porphyrins specific to each toxin is produced. These patterns of porphyrin production can therefore be used to analyse the presence of environmental toxins in the body and therefore of chemical exposure. Common toxins which affect porphyrin metabolism include lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium, hexachlorobenzene and dioxins.
Several health disorders have abnormal porphyrin levels associated with chemical exposure including chronic fatigue, multiple chemical sensitivities, learning and behavioural disorders, as well as mental health conditions. Multiple studies have recently revealed that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is also associated with abnormal patterns of porphyrin production. It was suggested that porphyrins should be routinely measured in ASD and potential ASD treatments should consider monitoring porphyrin levels.
Common Conditions:
- Autism
- Allergies
- Multiple chemical sensitivities
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Mental health
