amiloosis

Amiloosis is a term that refers to the abnormal accumulation of amyloid proteins in tissues and organs. Amyloid is a general term for a protein that can misfold into a specific, stable shape. When these proteins misfold, they can aggregate and deposit as amyloid fibrils in various parts of the body. This deposition can disrupt the normal function of organs and tissues, leading to a range of symptoms and diseases.

The specific type of amyloid that accumulates depends on the underlying cause of the condition. For instance, amyloid light-chain (AL) amyloidosis is caused by an overproduction of abnormal antibodies, while amyloid A (AA) amyloidosis is associated with chronic inflammation. Other types include transthyretin (ATTR) amyloidosis, which is linked to mutations in the transthyretin gene or age-related changes, and beta-amyloid (Aβ) amyloidosis, famously associated with Alzheimer's disease in the brain.

The clinical presentation of amiloosis varies widely depending on the organs affected. Common sites of amyloid deposition include the kidneys, heart, liver, spleen, and nervous system. Symptoms can include fatigue, swelling (edema), shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, numbness or weakness in the limbs, and organ failure. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, laboratory tests to identify the specific amyloid protein, and tissue biopsies. Treatment strategies aim to address the underlying cause of amyloid production, reduce inflammation, and manage symptoms to improve organ function and quality of life.