Ocular Involvement in Cutaneous Porphyria

THE AUTHORITATIVE description of the eye in porphyria1lays emphasis on the clinical features. Stokes2has described in some detail the clinical features of the conjunctiva, sclera, and cornea in a case of porphyria, and the histological features of a conjunctival biopsy. This appears to be the first histological description of an entire eye associated with a case of proven porphyria, as noted by N. Ashton and L. Zimmerman (written communications, Oct 21 and 23, 1969). Report of a Case A male Negro, aged 51 years, gave a history of gradual loss of vision in his left eye over a ten-year period. A similar deterioration of vision in the right eye began on Sept 9, 1969, one year prior to admission. No ocular pain was experienced, but bitemporal headaches were common and persistent. On inquiry, a history of recurrent blistering and superficial abrasions of hands was given