Acute intermittent porphyria first diagnosed in the third trimester of pregnancy. Case report

Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is a rare disorder of heme metabolism, which usually presents with abdominal pain, gastrointestinal symptoms and autonomic nervous system disturbances. Exacerbations first presenting during pregnancy can mimic various neuropsychiatric disorders and presents a challenging diagnosis. Furthermore, factors precipitating AIP attacks may be associated with pregnancy, including exposure to certain drugs, hyperemesis gravidum induced starvation, dieting and infection. The present case demonstrates the need for a high level of suspicion in order to diagnose this disorder in pregnancy and prevent further morbidity.