What is Amyloidosis?
AMYLOIDOSIS is a term that represents several different types of diseases where an abnormal protein called amyloid is produced. These amyloid protein fibers can attach and deposit into organs, tissues, nerves and other places in the body. When that happens, normal function of the area can be affected. As the amyloid protein increases, health problems and organ damage may occur. “OSIS” means increased, or an abnormal, supply of AMYLOID protein.
Most of the amyloidosis diseases have different treatments; therefore, the correct diagnosis is extremely important.
Types of Amyloidosis
When amyloid clusters together, it can be in several places in the body at the same time. This is called Systemic. If it gathers in one specific area of the body only, it is called Localized.
There are several different types of amyloid proteins. When discussing the various types, the “A” stands for Amyloid. What follows the “A” is what defines the specific type of amyloid protein involved. For example, these are the three most common Systemic Amyloidosis diseases:
AL – A is for amyloid. L is for Light Chain
AA – A is for amyloid. A is for Serum A Protein (also known as SAA)
ATTR – A is for amyloid. TTR is for Transthyretin (also known as TTR) protein.
There are other types of amyloidosis diseases as well, which will be outlined on this website.
Go directly to your amyloid type and find specific information on symptoms, diagnosis and treatments for your type.