Amyloidosis

Amyloidosis is a rare condition that occurs when abnormal proteins build up in your body’s organs and tissues. Though often overlooked, early detection is key. The team at Bioinfusion Center in Farmington Hills, Michigan, led by Cindy Crosby, MSN, FNP, CCRN, CRNI, has the expertise and experience to diagnose and treat the condition with IV infusion therapy. They can help you manage symptoms, protect organ function, and improve your quality of life. Call to book an evaluation or schedule an appointment online today.

What is amyloidosis?

Amyloidosis is a rare and serious condition that occurs when an abnormal protein called amyloid builds up in tissues and organs throughout your body. These protein deposits aren’t normally found in the body and can interfere with the function of affected organs. Over time, the accumulation can lead to organ damage and failure. 

Amyloidosis can affect many organs, including the heart, kidneys, liver, spleen, nervous system, and digestive tract. Several types include AL (primary) amyloidosis, AA (secondary) amyloidosis, and hereditary forms, each with different causes and progression patterns.

What are the symptoms of amyloidosis?

Symptoms of amyloidosis can vary depending on which organs it affects. Common signs include:

• Fatigue or weakness
• Shortness of breath
• Swelling in the legs or ankles
• Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
• Irregular heartbeat
• Weight loss
• Enlarged tongue
• Difficulty swallowing
• Foamy urine or signs of kidney dysfunction

Because these symptoms overlap with other conditions, amyloidosis is often challenging to diagnose early.

What causes amyloidosis?

The root cause of amyloidosis depends on the type. In AL amyloidosis, the body’s bone marrow produces abnormal plasma cells that release faulty light chain proteins, which form amyloid deposits. 

AA amyloidosis, on the other hand, is usually a complication of chronic inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or infections. 

Hereditary amyloidosis results from genetic mutations that cause abnormal protein production. Regardless of the type, the buildup of amyloid disrupts normal tissue and organ function.

How does IV infusion therapy treat amyloidosis?

At Bioinfusion Center, the team provides IV infusion therapy to help manage amyloidosis, especially AL amyloidosis. Treatments may include chemotherapy agents delivered through an IV to target and reduce the production of abnormal plasma cells that create amyloid proteins. In some cases, they use monoclonal antibodies to target the amyloid deposits directly. 

IV infusion also delivers supportive treatments such as diuretics, pain relief, or cardiac medications to manage symptoms. By slowing the accumulation of amyloid and supporting organ function, IV infusion therapy can improve your quality of life and help prevent further damage. 

The team tailors your treatment plan to your specific type of amyloidosis and organ involvement to provide successful outcomes.

For an accurate diagnosis and treatment for amyloidosis, call the office today or book an appointment online.