 Health Guide Drug Guide Images Primary amyloidosisDefinitionPrimary amyloidosis is a disorder in which protein fibers are deposited in tissues and organs, harming them. Alternative NamesAmyloid - primary CausesThe cause of primary amyloidosis is unknown, but the condition is related to abnormal production of antibodies by a type of immune cell called plasma cells. The symptoms depend on the organs affected by the deposits. These organs can include the tongue, intestines, skeletal and smooth muscles, nerves, skin, ligaments, heart, liver, spleen, and kidneys. Primary amyloidosis can result in conditions that include:
The deposits build up in the affected organs, causing them to become stiff, which decreases their ability to function. Risk factors have not been identified. Primary amyloidosis is rare. It is similar to multiple myeloma, and is treated the same way. Symptoms
Additional symptoms that may be associated with this disease:
Exams and TestsYour doctor may discover that you have an enlarged liver or spleen. If specific organ damage is suspected, your doctor may order tests to confirm amyloidosis of that organ. For example:
This disease may also alter the results of the following tests:
TreatmentSome patients with primary amyloidosis respond to chemotherapy directed at the abnormal plasma cells. Stem cell transplantation may be used, as in multiple myeloma. In secondary amyloidosis, aggressive treatment of the underlying disease can improve symptoms and/or slow progression of disease. Complications such as heart failure, kidney failure, and other problems can sometimes be treated as necessary. Outlook (Prognosis)The severity of the disease depends upon the organs affected. Heart and kidney involvement may lead to organ failure and death. Systemic involvement is associated with death within 1 to 3 years. Possible Complications
When to Contact a Medical ProfessionalCall your health care provider if symptoms consistent with primary amyloidosis develop. If you know you have primary amyloidosis, call your health care provider if difficulty breathing, persistent swelling of the ankles or other areas, decreased urine output, or other symptoms occur. This may indicate that complications have developed. PreventionThere is no known prevention. ReferencesBuxbaum JN. The Amyloidoses. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D. Cecil Textbook of Medicine. 22nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2004. Hoffman R, Benz Jr. EJ, Shattil SJ, et al., eds. Hematology: Basic Principles and Practice. 4th ed. Philladelphia, Pa: Churchill Livingston; 2005:1540-48.
Review Date:
2/23/2009 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 David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-
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