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Hereditary amyloidosis

Amyloidosis on the fingers
Amyloidosis on the fingers

Definition

  

Amyloidosis is a condition in which abnormal protein deposits in various tissues. These protein deposits damage the tissues and interfere with the function of the involved organ. The abnormal protein deposits are called amyloid, hence the name of this group of diseases.

Amyloidosis occurs in multiple forms: spontaneous, hereditary, and resulting from a cancer of the blood cells called myeloma. Hereditary amyloidosis is an inherited form that is transmitted as an autosomal dominant trait.


Alternative Names

  
Amyloidosis - hereditary

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

  


Symptoms

  


Signs and tests

  


Treatment

  


Support Groups

  


Expectations (prognosis)

  


Complications

  


Calling your health care provider

  


Prevention

  


 
Review Date: 3/13/2006
Reviewd By: Lamya Alarif, Ph.D., H.C.L.D., Immunology and Genetics Associates, McLean, VA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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