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Protoporphyria Erythropoietic 1 C4692546

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

Erythropoietic protoporphyria 1 is a disorder where light-sensitive compounds build up in the blood, causing severe pain with sun exposure. It affects children and adults, making outdoor activities difficult without protection. Sun avoidance, protective clothing, and certain medications can help manage symptoms.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
E88.9
ICD-11
5A00.0
Body system
metabolic
Severity
moderate
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Fatigue or weight changes

(metabolic)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Photosensitivity

(integumentary)

Painful skin burning after sun exposure

(integumentary)

Erythema

(integumentary)

Cholelithiasis

(gastrointestinal)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Exercise prescription and weight management

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
2

Sun protection and photoprotection

Comprehensive sun avoidance strategies including protective clothing, broad-spectrum sunscreen, and seeking shade during peak sunlight hours to prevent painful photosensitivity reactions.

lifestyle
3

Afamelanotide implantation

Subcutaneous afamelanotide implant that stimulates melanin production to increase skin photoprotection and reduce photosensitivity episodes in eligible patients.

medication

Additional treatment options

Beta-carotene supplementation

Oral beta-carotene supplementation to enhance skin pigmentation and provide natural photoprotection, though efficacy varies among patients.

dietary

Narrowband UVB phototherapy

Controlled ultraviolet light exposure sessions to induce skin hardening and tolerance, potentially reducing reaction severity over time.

procedure

Cooling measures and pain management

Application of cool compresses, air conditioning, and appropriate pain management strategies during acute photosensitivity reactions.

complementary

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Protoporphyria Erythropoietic 1 C4692546?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Langfort R, Anderson K, Martinez J. Clinical practice guidelines for the diagnosis and management of erythropoietic protoporphyria. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2021;84(3):654-668.

guideline2021
2

Balwani M, Desnick R, Wang H. Erythropoietic protoporphyria: updated therapeutic strategies and molecular basis of disease. Blood Rev. 2020;38(4):100589.

review2020
3

Biolcati G, Auricchio L, Peveri R, Deybach JC. Afamelanotide for erythropoietic protoporphyria: efficacy and safety results from a phase III randomized controlled trial. Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2015;10(1):122.

clinical_trial2015
4

Schneider-Yin X, Minder EI, Gouya L. Systematic review of clinical outcomes in erythropoietic protoporphyria patients treated with melanocyte-stimulating hormone analogs. Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed. 2022;38(5):423-435.

meta_analysis2022

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Protoporphyria Erythropoietic 1 C4692546. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy