Amyloidosis is a rare condition where abnormal amyloid proteins accumulate in organs and tissues, disrupting their normal function. This buildup can be localized to one area or systemic, affecting multiple areas like the heart, kidneys, liver, and nerves. The severity and symptoms depend on the type of amyloidosis and the organs involved.
Types and Causes of Amyloidosis
There are several types of amyloidosis, each of which has a different cause:
- AL (primary or light chain) amyloidosis is the most common form. It arises when bone marrow produces abnormal antibodies that can’t be broken down, leading to amyloid deposits. It often affects the heart, kidneys, liver, and nerves.
- AA (secondary) amyloidosis is associated with chronic inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The inflammation triggers the liver to produce an abnormal protein, resulting in amyloid deposits in the kidneys, liver, and spleen.
- Hereditary amyloidosis (hATTR) is a rare, inherited form caused by genetic mutations leading to abnormal amyloid production. It often affects the nerves, heart, and kidneys.
- Wild-type amyloidosis (ATTRwt) happens in some older adults as a result of the aging process, with symptoms typically affecting the heart.
Amyloidosis can also be named for the part of the body it affects. For instance:
- Cardiac amyloidosis stiffens the heart muscle, leading to arrhythmias and heart failure.
- Renal amyloidosis affects the kidneys, making it difficult for them to filter waste and toxins from your blood.
- Gastrointestinal amyloidosis slows the flow of food through your GI tract, obstructing digestion.
- Amyloid neuropathy harms the peripheral nerves, which connect your brain and spinal cord to the rest of your body.
Common Symptoms of Amyloidosis
Symptoms vary widely depending on the organs affected but may include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Unexplained weight loss
- Swelling in the ankles and legs
- Numbness or tingling in the hands and feet
- Enlarged tongue
- Skin changes, such as easy bruising or purplish patches around the eyes
- Shortness of breath
- Irregular heartbeat
These symptoms can mimic other conditions, making diagnosis challenging. If you experience any of these signs, consult a healthcare professional for evaluation.
Risk Factors for Amyloidosis
Several factors increase the risk of developing amyloidosis:
- Age: Most people diagnosed are over age 60.
- Gender: Men are more commonly affected than women.
- Family history: Inherited forms of amyloidosis run in families.
- Chronic inflammatory diseases: RA and IBD increase the risk of AA amyloidosis.
- Kidney dialysis: Long-term dialysis may lead to dialysis-related amyloidosis.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing amyloidosis involves blood and urine tests, imaging studies, and tissue biopsies to detect amyloid deposits. There is no cure, so treatment focuses on symptom management and slowing disease progression, which may include medications, chemotherapy, and, in some cases, organ transplants.
Choose BKLYN Cardio
As a leading medical practice for cardiovascular health, BKLYN Cardio offers routine monitoring to help diagnose and manage amyloidosis. We have served patients in New York City for over 40 years. Led by Dr. Matthew Jones, an interventional cardiologist continuing his father’s legacy, we take a holistic approach involving preventive care, lifestyle adjustments, and minimally invasive procedures to reduce dependency on medication and surgery. We have your best interest at heart and want to partner with you for better health. Contact us today to meet with our cardiologist in Brooklyn, NY.
