Amyloidosis
Amyloidosis is a protein deposition disease in which proteins normally made in the body become abnormal then mis-fold to form in-soluble fibrils that deposit and damage tissues and organs. There are many types of amyloidosis that are described based on the nature of the mis-folded protein. When amyloid forms, it can impact virtually any part of the body except the brain. Organs including the heart, kidney, liver, intestine as well as peripheral nerves are most commonly involved. Light chain amyloidosis (AL), a common form of the disease is caused by defective plasma cells in the bone marrow similar to multiple myeloma. Another common form of systemic amyloidosis occurs due to misfolding of transthyretin (TTR), a protein made in the liver. Abnormalities of TTR can occur as a result of a genetic mutation as seen with hereditary TTR amyloidosis (hATTR) or due to advanced age as seen with wild type TTR amyloidosis (wtATTR) While there's currently no cure for amyloidosis, several treatment options are available. At City of Hope we are committed to providing superb care for all patients with amyloidosis as well research to improve our understanding of the disease and discovery of new treatments.
Amyloidosis is a rare disease with approximately 4000 new cases of AL amyloidosis diagnosed in the United States annually. If you are suffering from AL or another type of amyloidosis, talk to us. Our team of experts at City of Hope uses leading-edge methods to diagnose and treat this serious condition.
A diagnosis of amyloidosis is based on clinical suspicion. Unfortunately, treatment can be delayed because symptoms mimic more common diseases. Early diagnosis is critical,and identifying the correct protein type is vital to choosing the right therapy.
AL Amyloidosis is closely related to multiple myeloma, an uncommon cancer occurring in the plasma cells, so many of the same treatments used for myeloma are also used to treat amyloidosis.
At City of Hope, we offer a full array of treatments for all forms of amyloidosis. Treatments for light chain amyloidosis include chemotherapy, immunotherapy and stem cell transplantation. We have an array of exciting clinical trials exploring new treatments that seek to improve the current standard of care.
City of Hope is committed to expanding knowledge and improving care for our patients and patients worldwide -- by discovering pathways towards earlier diagnosis and better treatments using the most advanced molecular and immune-based approaches.
As a founding member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, our amyloidosis doctors help develop and improve evidence based treatment guidelines throughout the country. Our Department of Hematology & Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation physicians are leading experts in their fields. They understand that a unique treatment plan tailored to the individual is critical to achieving the best possible outcomes. Our nurses are well-versed in all forms of systemic amyloidosis -- knowledge vital to providing the highest standard of daily care. In addition, our world-renowned scientists participate in international collaborative studies and center-specific research.
City of Hope is one of the few facilities designated a comprehensive cancer center by the National Cancer Institute.
Our developments in the areas of breakthrough cancer drugs, bone marrow transplants and CAR T cell therapy are recognized internationally.
Our leadership in research and innovation continually enhances our ability to provide novel and differentiated approaches to cancer care.
Amyloidosis Care Team
City of Hope brings expert care to any hematologic malignancy
