Amyloidosis

Description

The buildup of amyloid proteins in the heart, kidneys, liver or other organs.

Overview

Amyloidosis (am-uh-loi-DO-sis) is a rare disease that occurs when a protein called amyloid builds up in organs. This amyloid buildup can affect how the organs work.

Symptoms

Symptoms depend on which organs are affected. Symptoms may include fatigue and weakness; shortness of breath; numbness, tingling or pain in the hands or feet; and swelling in the ankles and legs. Other possible symptoms include diarrhea, constipation, nausea, an enlarged tongue and skin changes, such as thickening or easy bruising.

Treatments

Treatments can help manage symptoms and limit further production of amyloid protein. Depending on the type of amyloidosis, options might be medicines, chemotherapy, or an organ or stem cell transplant.