[Porphyria cutanea tarda induced by HMG CoA reductase inhibitors: simvastatin, pravastatin]. / Porphyrie cutanée tardive induite par des inhibiteurs de l'HMGCoA réductase: simvastatine, pravastatine.

INTRODUCTION: Based on experimental data, HMG CoA reductase inhibitors are theoretically contraindicated in patients with porphyria. These new cholesterol lowering drugs are increasingly being prescribed. We report the first case of drug-related porphyria cutanea tarda due to HMG CoA reductase inhibitors. CASE REPORT: Porphyria cutanea tarda was diagnosed in a patient with chronic alcoholism 18 months after beginning a treatment with simvastatin followed by pravastatin. These drugs were given under different trade names and reintroduced successively leading to acute episodes. Total withdrawal of HMG CoA reductase inhibitors was followed by clinical normalization. COMMENTS: This case confirmed the theoretical contraindication for the use of HMG CoA reductase inhibitors in patients with porphyria. The risk of revealing porphyria with this type of cholesterol lowering drugs is emphasized. Since these drugs are used very frequently, similar cases may well be reported soon.