amyloid
Quick Summary
Amyloid is a waxy, translucent substance that forms when normally soluble proteins misfold and create insoluble fibrous deposits. These deposits can accumulate in the connective tissues and organs of the body, interfering with normal function.12
There are different types of amyloid, distinguished by their primary protein component. Amyloidosis, the disease caused by these deposits, can be systemic, affecting multiple organs, or localized to specific areas. Organs commonly impacted include the kidneys, heart, liver, spleen, lungs, and skin. Symptoms vary based on the affected organ, ranging from gastrointestinal issues to heart failure.1
Amyloidosis can be classified as primary (occurring without an underlying disease), secondary (associated with chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or tuberculosis), or hereditary (resulting from genetic mutations). A notable example is amyloid-beta protein, which forms plaques in the brain and is associated with Alzheimer's disease. Diagnosis involves detecting amyloid in bodily fluids or through tissue biopsies, with treatment focused on managing symptoms and underlying causes.123
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- connective tissue diseaseAmyloidosis
…characterized by the accumulation of amyloid, which consists of a filamentous protein that is derived from immunoglobulins, in the connective tissue. The deposition of amyloid may be widespread, with involvement of major organs leading to serious consequences, or it may be limited with little effect on health. The primary form…
Read More…characterized by the accumulation of amyloid, which consists of a filamentous protein that is derived from immunoglobulins, in the connective tissue. The deposition of amyloid may be widespread, with involvement of major organs leading to serious consequences, or it may be limited with little effect on health. The primary form…
Read More - dementia with Lewy bodiesPathological features
…cerebral tissue and deposition of amyloid (an insoluble protein-carbohydrate complex) in the brain, which is similar to cerebral atrophy and the formation of amyloid plaques documented in Alzheimer disease.
Read More…cerebral tissue and deposition of amyloid (an insoluble protein-carbohydrate complex) in the brain, which is similar to cerebral atrophy and the formation of amyloid plaques documented in Alzheimer disease.
Read More