Amyloidosis

What is amyloidosis?

Amyloidosis happens when the body incorrectly deposits defective proteins (amyloid) in one or more organs, which can lead to organ failure and sometimes even death. These proteins build up and cause dysfunction in several organs, including the heart, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract, nervous system, skin, and tongue. When amyloid builds up in heart tissue, it’s known as cardiac amyloidosis, a condition that can eventually impact the heart’s ability to pump blood. Often, patients with amyloidosis will see several doctors before the right diagnosis is reached.

At the AHN Amyloidosis Program, a team of doctors from various specialties collaborate to offer individualized treatment plans. These patient-centered therapies slow down the disease to help you feel better, for longer.

Dr. Srinivas Murali, Cardiology Specialist discussing the cardiac amyloid team at AHN Cardiovascular Institute.

"We have a wonderful cardiac amyloid team here which has allowed us to be highly successful in managing these patients and making sure that they are all benefiting the most from available therapies."

Srinivas Murali, MD — Cardiology Specialist 

View on YouTube how amyloidosis is diagnosed
* Scroll to see video disclaimer

Diagnosing amyloidosis

Two primary types of cardiac amyloidosis include:

  • Transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR amyloidosis).
  • Light chain amyloidosis (AL amyloidosis).

Common cardiac amyloidosis symptoms include:

  • Congestive heart failure with unexplained thickening of the heart muscle.
  • Unexplained weakness, numbness, or pain in the hands or feet.
  • Unexplained low back pain.
  • Irregular heartbeats that may be too fast or too slow.
  • Dizziness or fainting with changes in position.
  • Abnormal kidney function.
  • Rapid weight loss.
  • Diarrhea. 
  • An unusually large t