What is variegate porphyria?

Variegate porphyria is a subtype of porphyria. It is an inherited disorder characterised by skin photosensitivity (reaction to light), systemic symptoms arising from neurological problems, or both. It is considered very uncommon or rare throughout the world apart from in South Africa, where it is estimated that 1 in 300 of South Africa's white population is affected. This gene mutation is traceable to Dutch immigrants who married there in 1680.

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