What is the diagnosis for Acute Intermittent Porphyria (AIP)?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: March 9, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Differential Diagnosis for AIP (Acute Intermittent Porphyria)

  • Single Most Likely Diagnosis
    • Acute Intermittent Porphyria (AIP): This is the most likely diagnosis given the name "AIP diagnosis". AIP is a genetic disorder that affects the production of heme, a vital molecule in the body. It is characterized by recurrent episodes of severe abdominal pain, neurological symptoms, and psychological disturbances.
  • Other Likely Diagnoses
    • Other types of porphyria (e.g., Variegate Porphyria, Hereditary Coproporphyria): These conditions also affect heme production and can present with similar symptoms to AIP.
    • Lead poisoning: Lead poisoning can cause similar neurological and abdominal symptoms to AIP.
    • Other causes of acute abdominal pain (e.g., appendicitis, pancreatitis): These conditions can present with severe abdominal pain, which is a hallmark symptom of AIP.
  • Do Not Miss Diagnoses
    • Eclampsia: Although unlikely, eclampsia (seizures during pregnancy) can present with similar neurological symptoms to AIP and is a life-threatening condition if missed.
    • Meningitis: Meningitis is an infection of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord and can present with severe neurological symptoms, including seizures and abdominal pain.
    • Ruptured ectopic pregnancy: A ruptured ectopic pregnancy is a life-threatening condition that can cause severe abdominal pain and neurological symptoms.
  • Rare Diagnoses
    • Tyrosinemia type 1: This is a rare genetic disorder that affects the breakdown of the amino acid tyrosine and can cause similar neurological and abdominal symptoms to AIP.
    • Wilson's disease: This is a rare genetic disorder that affects copper metabolism and can cause neurological and abdominal symptoms.
    • Other rare causes of porphyria-like symptoms (e.g., Doss porphyria, X-linked sideroblastic anemia): These conditions are extremely rare and can present with similar symptoms to AIP.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.