Amyloidosis is a rare but serious disease caused by an accumulation of proteins, specifically misfolded proteins, in the form of insoluble fibers known as amyloids.
These amyloid deposits can interfere with the normal functions of various organs they infiltrate, resulting in a wide range of potential health issues. There are multiple types of amyloidosis, each categorized based on the type of protein involved and the organs affected.
Common Symptoms:
We have blog topics delving into amyloidosis - such as what it is, the symptoms, how it’s treated, and advice for living with the condition. You can find them below.
Amyloidosis is a rare disease caused by a buildup of amyloid, an abnormal protein, in organs and tissues throughout the body. This buildup can lead to organ dysfunction and a variety of health issues. There are several types of amyloidosis, each associated with different proteins and affecting different parts of the body.
Symptoms of amyloidosis depend on the organs affected but may include fatigue, weight loss, swelling of the ankles and legs, shortness of breath, numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, and an irregular heartbeat. Because these symptoms can be associated with many other conditions, amyloidosis can be challenging to diagnose
Diagnosing amyloidosis typically involves a combination of blood tests, urine tests, imaging studies (like MRI or CT scans), and a biopsy of affected tissue. The biopsy is crucial for confirming the presence of amyloid deposits and identifying the specific type of amyloidosis.
Treatment varies depending on the type of amyloidosis and may include chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation, targeted therapies, and medications to manage symptoms and prevent further organ damage. Treatment aims to stop the production of abnormal protein and manage any organ dysfunction.
While there is currently no cure for amyloidosis, treatments can help manage symptoms, slow the progression of the disease, and improve quality of life. The effectiveness of treatment depends on the type of amyloidosis, how early it is diagnosed, and the organs involved. Ongoing research and clinical trials are focused on finding more effective treatments for amyloidosis.