Industrially Acquired Porphyria

Abstract
Twenty-nine patients working in a chemical factory engaged in the manufacture of 2,4-dichlorophenol (2,4-D) and 2,4,5-trichlorophenol (2,4,5-T) exhibiting features of chloracne were studied for the presence of porphyria cutanea tarda. In II cases urinary uroporphyrins were elevated. Two of these patients who showed evidence of acquired porphyria with chloracne were hospitalized. The features of chloracne as well as the clinical and laboratory features of acquired porphyria have been discussed. There appeared to be an etiologic but not quantitative relationship between the chloracne in workers engaged in the manufacture of 2,4-D and 2,4,5-T and porphyria cutanea tarda of the acquired type. It is our feeling that either the finished chemicals or some intermediate are responsible for both diseases.