Amyloidosis Overview

Amyloidosis Overview

• Amyloidosis is a group of diseases where amyloid proteins deposit in organs and tissues.
• Commonly affects older adults.
• Exists in systemic and localized forms.

Systemic Amyloidosis

• Involves multiple organs and tissues.
  • Amyloid light chain (AL): Abnormal plasma cells produce these proteins. Associated with cancers like multiple myeloma, B-cell lymphoma, and Waldenström's macroglobulinemia.
  • Serum amyloid A (AA): Linked to chronic inflammatory conditions. Examples include rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and various infections.
  • Amyloid transthyretin (ATTR): Two subtypes:
    • Wild-type ATTR (senile systemic amyloidosis): Primarily affects older men, mainly causing heart problems and sometimes carpal tunnel syndrome.
    • Mutant ATTR (familial amyloid polyneuropathy): Hereditary (autosomal dominant), affects young adults and often leads to peripheral and autonomic nerve issues.
  • Amyloid β2 microglobulin (Aβ2M): Associated with long-term hemodialysis patients, usually causing joint problems.

Localized Amyloidosis

• Less common than systemic amyloidosis.
• Amyloid protein deposits in a specific organ or tissue (e.g., respiratory tract, skin, urinary tract).
• Often not associated with a widespread plasma cell disorder.
• Includes specific forms like cerebral amyloid angiopathy, and Alzheimer's disease (involving protein Aβ).

This quiz explores the different forms of amyloidosis, focusing on systemic amyloidosis and its subtypes. Learn about the associated conditions, age groups affected, and the roles of different amyloid proteins. Perfect for students and healthcare professionals looking to deepen their understanding of this complex disease.