Vampires are fake. Porphyria is real. We break down the science behind the so-called “vampire disease,” in plain English, with Halloween vibes and zero fluff.

What you’ll learn

• What porphyria is, how heme is made, and why enzyme problems cause symptoms

• Acute vs cutaneous types, including AIP, HCP, VP, PCT, EPP, XLP, and CEP

• Classic symptoms you should know: severe abdominal pain, nerve changes, painful photosensitivity, dark or red urine

• Common triggers to avoid: unsafe drugs, fasting or low carb intake, alcohol, infections, hormonal changes

• How doctors test for it: urine ALA and PBG during attacks, porphyrins in blood or stool, genetic testing

• Treatments that work: IV hemin for attacks, givosiran for prevention in acute hepatic porphyria, phlebotomy and low-dose hydroxychloroquine for PCT, afamelanotide for EPP

• Living with porphyria, sunlight precautions, diet tips, and when to seek urgent care

• Halloween tie-ins and myths vs facts

Who this episode helps

• Patients with unexplained abdominal attacks or light-triggered skin pain

• Caregivers who want clear guidance they can use today

• Anyone who loves medical stories that separate legend from real biology

Listen, subscribe, and share so more people hear accurate information on rare diseases. Comment with your questions. We read them.

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Sources listed in video version of this episode on YouTube.