Understand AL Amyloidosis
AL amyloidosis is a rare disease that begins when abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow produce proteins called light chains. These proteins can misfold and form amyloid deposits, potentially affecting the heart, kidneys, nerves, digestive system, liver, and other tissues.
What patients and families should know
Symptoms, testing, and treatment can look different from one person to another. These four areas provide a simple starting point for understanding the disease and the conversations you may have with your healthcare team.
What AL amyloidosis is
AL amyloidosis begins when abnormal plasma cells in the bone marrow produce proteins called light chains. These proteins can misfold and form amyloid deposits that may affect organs and other tissues.
Symptoms can vary
Symptoms may include fatigue, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, numbness, digestive changes, unexplained weight loss, or changes in kidney function.
How diagnosis is established
Diagnosis usually involves blood and urine tests, a tissue biopsy, amyloid typing, and tests to determine which organs are affected.
Treatment is personalized
Treatment focuses on stopping the production of harmful light chains while protecting affected organs. Options may include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, supportive care, and, for selected patients, a stem cell transplant. Blood markers may improve before organ symptoms, so recovery can take time.
Moving forward with greater confidence
AL amyloidosis is serious, but treatments continue to advance. Early diagnosis, accurate amyloid typing, and care from an experienced, coordinated medical team can help patients understand their options and move forward with greater confidence.
Patient and family resources
Help for the road ahead
Clear information can make the next conversation feel more manageable. Use these resources to learn at your own pace and bring your questions to your healthcare team.