Multimedia EncyclopediaPrimary amyloidosis
Definition
Primary amyloidosis is a disorder in which abnormal proteins build up in tissues and organs. Clumps of the abnormal proteins are called amyloid deposits.
Alternative Names
Amyloid - primary
Causes
The cause of primary amyloidosis is unknown. The condition is related to abnormal and excess production of antibodies by a type of immune cell called plasma cells. Clumbs of abnormal proteins build up in certain organs. This reduces their ability to work correctly.
Primary amyloidosis can lead to conditions that include:
Primary amyloidosis is rare. It is similar to multiple myeloma.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on the organs affected. This disease can affect the tongue, intestines, skeletal and smooth muscles, nerves, skin, ligaments, heart, liver, spleen, and kidneys.
Symptoms include:
- Abnormal heart rhythm
- Swollen tongue
- Fatigue
- Numbness of hands or feet
- Shortness of breath
- Skin changes
-
Swallowing problems
- Swelling in the arms and legs
- Weak hand grip
- Weight loss
Other symptoms that may occur with this disease:
Exams and Tests
The doctor or nurse will examine you. You will be asked questions about your medical history and symptoms. A physical exam may show that you have an swollen liver or spleen.
The first step in diagnosing amyloidosis should be blood and urine tests to look for abnormal proteins.
Other tests depend on your symptoms and what organ may be affected. Some tests include:
Tests that can help confirm the diagnosis include:
- Abdominal fat pad aspiration
- Bone marrow biopsy
- Rectal mucosa biopsy
This disease may also affect the results of the following tests:
Treatment
This condition is treated the same way as multiple myeloma.
Treatment may include:
- Chemotherapy
- Stem cell transplant
If the condition is caused by another disease, that disease should be agressively treated. This may improve symptoms or slow the disease from getting worse. Complications such as heart failure, kidney failure, and other problems can sometimes be treated, when needed.
Outlook (Prognosis)
How well you do depends on which organs are affected. Heart and kidney involvement may lead to organ failure and death. Body-wide ( systemic) amyloidosis can lead to death in 1 to 3 years.
Possible Complications
- Congestive heart failure
- Death
- Kidney failure
- Respiratory failure
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of this disease. Also call if you have been diagnosed with this disease and have:
- Decreased urine
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the ankles or other body parts that does not go away
Prevention
There is no known prevention for primary amyloidosis.
References
Gertz MA. Amyloidosis. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Cecil Medicine. 24th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2011:chap 194.
Review Date:
1/1/2013
Reviewed By:
David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by A.D.A.M. Health Solutions, Ebix, Inc., Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, David R. Eltz, Stephanie Slon, and Nissi Wang.
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