- Amyloidosis is characterized by the abnormal deposition of amyloid protein in tissues and organs. The amyloid protein forms non-branching fibrils that take on an abnormal beta-pleated sheet configuration.
- There are multiple subtypes of amyloidosis based on the type of amyloid protein deposited, including AL amyloidosis associated with plasma cell dyscrasias and AA amyloidosis associated with chronic inflammatory conditions.
- Amyloidosis can be systemic, involving multiple organ systems, or localized to a single organ. Common sites of involvement include the kidneys, liver, spleen, heart, and skin. Deposition of amyloid protein in organs can lead to organ dysfunction and failure.