Amyloidosis

Updated: 2023-06-24

Overview

Amyloidosis (am-uh-loi-DO-sis) is a rare disease that occurs when a protein called amyloid builds up in organs. This amyloid buildup can make the organs not work properly.

Symptoms

Symptoms depend on which organs are affected. They may include serious fatigue and weakness; shortness of breath; numbness, tingling or pain in the hands or feet; or swelling in the ankles and legs. Other symptoms include an enlarged tongue and skin changes, such as thickening or easy bruising.

Treatments

Treatments can help manage symptoms and limit further production of amyloid protein. Depending on the type of amyloidosis, options might be medicines, chemotherapy, or an organ or stem cell transplant.