Secondary systemic amyloid

• A
• B
• C
• D
• E
• F
• G
• H
• I
• J
• K
• L
• M
• N
• O
• P
• Q
• R
• S
• T
• U
• V
• W
• X
• Y
• Z

Amyloidosis on the face

Amyloidosis on the fingers

Antibodies

• Fatigue
• Numbness of hands and feet
• Weak hand grip
• Weight loss
• Shortness of breath
• Swelling of the extremities
• Swallowing difficulties
• Irregular heart rhythm
• Bleeding in the skin
• Enlarged tongue

If specific organ damage is suspected, the testing to confirm amyloidosis of that organ may include a biopsy of an affected tissue or organ that is positive for amyloid. Other tests may include: a skin biopsy of subcutaneous fat, a rectal mucosa biopsy, or a bone marrow biopsy. All of these tests are convenient, safe, and likely to be positive for confirmation of the disease.

The physical examination or abdominal ultrasound shows an enlarged liver or spleen.

Cardiac evaluation reveals arrhythmias, abnormal heart sounds, or signs of heart failure:

• ECG shows abnormalities
• Echocardiogram shows poor wall motion because of stiff heart muscle ( cardiomyopathy )

Renal evaluation reveals renal failure or nephrotic syndrome(excessive protein in the urine):

• Urinalysis that shows protein , casts , or fat bodies
• Increased serum creatinine
• Increased BUN

There may also be an evaluation for carpal tunnel syndrome:

• Nerve conduction velocity that shows conduction block
• Weak hand grip associated with weakness of the thumb

Review Date: 01/26/2005
Reviewed By: Rita Nanda, MD., Department of Hematology/Oncology, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.