Amyloidosis (Cardiac)

An abnormal protein that builds up in organs such as the heart

Amyloidosis is a disease that causes an abnormal protein called amyloid to build up in vital organs, such as the heart. This protein can be produced in the bone marrow.

There are several types of this disease, including:

• AL: Also known as immunoglobulin light chain amyloidosis, this type occurs when plasma cells in the bone marrow create antibodies with abnormal proteins. These proteins can’t be broken down, and they end up being deposited in the body’s organs.
• AA: This type usually affects the kidneys, but it also can affect the heart. AA amyloidosis can occur in people who have chronic inflammatory diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease or rheumatoid arthritis.
• Hereditary: This type, passed down through families, involves a genetic change that causes the liver to make too much of a protein that carries thyroid hormones in the blood.
• Age-related: This type is similar to hereditary amyloidosis, but there is no genetic change involved. Instead, the liver protein builds up in the organs over time. This type tends to affect the hearts of older men.

Although this is a rare condition, our Cardiology Program providers are able to treat it. We provide comprehensive care for even the rarest heart problems.

What are the symptoms of amyloidosis?

When amyloid collects in the heart, you may experience symptoms such as:

• Irregular heartbeat, also known as arrhythmia
• Lightheadedness
• Shortness of breath
• Swollen feet or legs

 What are the risk factors for amyloidosis?

Although anyone can develop amyloidosis, several factors can increase your risk for the disease. These include:

• Age: Most people with AL amyloidosis are older than 60
• Genetics: Family history of hereditary amyloidosis
• Inflammation: Chronic inflammatory diseases increase the risk for AA amyloidosis
• Race: People of African descent are more likely to carry a genetic mutation for the disease

Sex: Men are more likely to have both AL and age-related amyloidosis

Tests

Treatments

There is no cure for amyloidosis, but treatments can help with symptoms. Chemotherapy may be effective for patients with AL amyloidosis by destroying the cells that create amyloid. Treating the underlying inflammatory disease can be effective for patients with AA amyloidosis.