Brief about Amyloidosis

Amyloidosis refers to a disease where abnormal proteins builds up in different parts of your body. The body's organs are affected and cannot function the way they are supposed to there are different causes for the amyloid buildup and the severity is based on the type of protein and where it deposits in your body.

 Primary amyloidosis has been seen in patients who have different types of blood cancers called multiple myeloma. This is the most common type of amyloidosis and affects the entire body including the kidneys, heart, liver, intestines, and nerves.

 Secondary amyloidosis may be linked with chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, tuberculosis, or Crohn's disease. Other organs that may be affected include the spleen, kidneys, liver, and adrenal glands.

Patient to have been on dialysis may also be at risk of amyloidosis or people from a family history of this condition. Men are more at risk than women of developing this problem.

The symptoms of amyloidosis may not be obvious at first. Some patients may have changes in skin color, joint pain, anemia, or generalized weakness. Patients with heart related amyloidosis will have shortness of breath or an irregular heartbeat.

The diagnosis is based on a biopsy which is a small needle inserted into an Oregon that may be affected by the condition. You may be referred to a genetic specialist for additional testing. There is no cure for amyloidosis, however chemotherapy, liver transplant, or kidney transplant may be recommended depending on the severity.

If you have any signs or symptoms of amyloidosis, you should talk with your doctor and have basic testing done along with the physical examination.