Amyloid Protein
Amyloid is an abnormal Protein that can accumulate in the tissues and organs of the body under certain circumstances. When this occurs, the condition is referred to as “Amyloidosis”. Primary Amyloidosis is a disorder in which the abnormal protein fibers are deposited in tissues and organs, harming them. Secondary amyloidosis can be caused by infection, inflammatory diseases, and sometimes cancer. The affected organs can include the tongue, intestines, skeletal and smooth muscles, nerves, skin, ligaments, heart, liver, spleen, and kidneys.
Primary amyloidosis is rare and the cause of the condition is unknown although it appears to be related to the malignant plasma cell disorder multiple myeloma. The condition is related to the abnormal production of antibodies by a type of immune cell called plasma cells. The patient’s presenting symptoms in Amyloidosis will vary depending on the organs affected by the amyloid deposits. Symptoms can include the following: Enlarged tongue, Fatigue, Irregular heart rhythm, Numbness of hands and feet, Shortness of breath, Skin changes, Swallowing difficulties, Swelling in the arms and legs, Weak hand grip and Weight loss,
Primary amyloidosis can result in conditions that include:
- Enlarged Heart (Cardiomyopathy)
- Pain in the wrist and hands (Carpal tunnel syndrome)
- Gastrointestinal reflux Disease (GERD)
- Loss of Kidney function (and eventual Kidney failure)
- Poor absorption of food and nutrients from the intestines (Malabsorption )
