Elevated kryptopyrrole levels result from an abnormality in hemoglobin (the protein that holds iron in red blood cells). Kryptopyrrole has no known function in the body, but it is excreted in urine. Although a substantial proportion of psychiatric diseases can be traced to excess urinary kryptopyrrole, other conditions with a genetic basis, such as Autism, frequently show elevated pyrrole levels. In more general cases there can be emotional symptoms, physical symptoms, or both simultaneously. It is therefore easy to understand how a misdiagnosis can occur - hence the importance of early testing. In formal clinical trials, the following percentages were determined for frequency of elevated pyrrole in a range of test subjects:

Autism - 50% [Audha]
Alcoholism - 40% [Mathews-Larson]
ADHD - 30% [Walsh]
Schizophrenia & Depression - 70% [Hoffer]

Pyroluria is a feature of many behavioral and emotional disorders. Its cause is an inborn error in pyrrole chemistry, resulting in a dramatic zinc and vitamin B6 deficiency. Elevated levels of kryptopyrrole produce symptoms including irritability, anger episodes, poor memory, impaired intellectual function, impaired immune function and inability to deal with stress. Patients are easily identified by their inability to tan, poor dream recall, abnormal fat distribution, and sensitivity to light and sound.

The decisive laboratory test is analysis for kryptopyrroles in urine. Treatment is centered on zinc and B6 supplements together with omega-6 essential fatty acids. If left undiagnosed and untreated, the condition can lead to a wide range of significant health problems.

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