Amyloidosis is a rare condition that occurs when amyloids build up in the organs. Amyloid, a protein produced in the bone marrow, gets deposited in any organ or tissue. The build-up is commonly found in the kidneys, heart, and liver. Although amyloidosis is treatable, it cannot be cured. Moreover, the treatment methods vary depending on the type of amyloidosis.

Many different types of proteins can lead to the formation of amyloidosis. However, only a few pose a major health risk. The type of protein that causes amyloids and the origin of the affected organ determine the type of amyloidosis.

1. AL amyloidosis
Among all the types of amyloidosis, this is the most common one. It is considered the primary type. Amyloid light chains are a type of protein that causes this condition. It is also linked with blood cancers, such as multiple myeloma.

2. AA amyloidosis
This is also known as secondary amyloidosis. AA amyloidosis is a result of chronic inflammatory diseases or infections, such as Crohn’s disease, arthritis, or ulcerative colitis. It mostly affects the liver, heart, and the digestive tract.

3. Dialysis related amyloidosis
This is one of the more common types of amyloidosis in older adults or those who have undergone dialysis for over 5 years. It is caused due to the build-up of beta 2 microglobulin. It is most commonly found in the tendons, joints, and bones.

4. Hereditary amyloidosis
This is a rare form of the disease and is passed on from one generation to the other. It affects the nerves, heart, liver, and kidneys. Numerous genetic defects increase the chances of amyloid disease. The protein TTR (transthyretin) is suspected to be the cause of this condition.

5. Treatments for amyloidosis
While there is no cure for the condition, doctors prescribe treatments that can subdue the symptoms and slow the progress of the disease. Sometimes, if someone suffers from another disease, the treatment will be administered accordingly.

• For those who have AL amyloidosis, a high dosage of chemotherapy is recommended. Along with that, stem cell transplant may also be given when amyloid formation needs to be removed.
• Secondary or AA amyloidosis is treated by controlling the underlying disease through powerful anti-inflammatory medications and steroids.
• Hereditary amyloidosis is treated through a liver transplant to remove the build-up.
• Therapies are given to slow down the production of the abnormal protein TTR in the body.
• Depending on where the protein build-up is deposited, you might even have to get a kidney transplant.
• Other treatments include thickeners to add fluids that prevent choking for those who have trouble swallowing, diuretic medications that remove excess water from the body, changes in one’s diet in case of gastrointestinal amyloidosis, and compression stockings to relieve swelling from the feet or legs.

The treatment for amyloidosis depends on which part of the body is affected by the condition. It can be dangerous for those where the kidney or the heart is affected. Also, early diagnosis increases the chances of survival for most people.