What is Amyloidosis?

Amyloidosis
Amyloid Apple Green Birefringence. Congo red stain of pleural biopsy specimen showing the apple green birefringence of amyloid when seen under polarized light. Amyloidosis presenting as bilateral transudative pleural effusions with normal cardiac investigations: a case report. Briggs JH, Singleton WG, Burke MM, Hart LA, Parker RJ - Cases journal (2009). Not altered. CC.

Amyloidosis is a rare disease that occurs when amyloid protein deposits on certain organs which may alter the organs normal function.

What is the Pathology of Amyloidosis?

The pathology of amyloidosis is:

-Etiology: The cause of amyloidosis is the deposition of amyloid protein.

-Pathogenesis: The sequence of events that lead to amyloidosis is the abnormal accumulation of amyloid protein.

-Morphology: The morphology associated with amyloidosis shows amyloid fibrils.

-Histology: The histology of amyloidosis shows pink amorphous globules that have apple green birefringence under polarized light.

How does Amyloidosis Present?

Patients with amyloidosis typically are males present in the age range of between 60 and 70 years. The symptoms, features, and clinical findings associated with amyloidosis depend on the organ involved which typically are the kidneys, heart, or brain.

How is Amyloidosis Diagnosed?

Amyloidosis is diagnosed with biopsy.

How is Amyloidosis Treated?

Amyloidosis is treated with symptomatic management or medical management.

What is the Prognosis of Amyloidosis?

The prognosis of amyloidosis is dependent on the organ that is involved.