Understanding Amyloidosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Risk Factors
Amyloidosis is a rare condition where abnormal proteins deposit in organs, causing functional impairments. Risk factors include age, genetics, chronic illnesses, and dialysis history. Symptoms vary based on affected organs, with potential for serious complications like organ failure. Although incurable, treatments aim to alleviate symptoms and prevent progression, enhancing survival and well-being.
Amyloidosis is a rare disorder characterized by the accumulation of abnormal proteins called amyloid in various organs. These proteins originate in the bone marrow and deposit in tissues such as the heart, liver, kidneys, spleen, and nervous system, impairing their functions.
The severity of amyloidosis varies based on affected organs. In advanced stages, organ failure can occur, potentially leading to life-threatening complications. The condition can develop in anyone, with symptoms depending on the organs involved.
For example, kidney involvement can lead to protein leakage into urine and eventual kidney failure. Cardiac deposits may restrict heart function, causing shortness of breath. Nervous system symptoms include numbness, tingling, and dizziness. Several factors increase risk, including age, genetics, previous chronic illnesses, sex, and dialysis history.
Age is a significant factor—most cases of AL amyloidosis occur in individuals aged 60 to 70. Although genetics may play a role, it isn't fully understood. Chronic infections and inflammatory diseases elevate risk, especially for AA amyloidosis. Men are more frequently affected than women, and dialysis patients may develop amyloid deposits due to protein buildup when filtration is inadequate.
Causes of amyloidosis vary with the type. AL amyloidosis, the most common, results from abnormal antibody production in the bone marrow. Hereditary amyloidosis is inherited through genetic mutations affecting organs like the kidneys and heart. Dialysis-related amyloidosis develops from protein deposits in joints and tendons after long-term dialysis. AA amyloidosis, linked to chronic inflammation, impacts the digestive system and other organs.
Symptoms often go unnoticed initially but become more apparent over time. Common signs include irregular heart rhythms, unexplained weight loss, skin changes such as easy bruising, numbness or tingling in extremities, weakness, tongue swelling, gastrointestinal issues, breathing difficulty, and joint swelling. While amyloidosis cannot currently be cured, treatments focus on managing symptoms and reducing amyloid production to improve quality of life.
