title: Amyloidosis.
abstract: Amyloidosis is not a single disease but a series of diseases in which there is extracellular deposition of a protein which, although it may be derived from different and unrelated sources, folds into a beta pleated sheet. There have recently been significant advances in elucidating the pathogenesis and in the treatment of this group of disorders. By identifying the source of precursor protein, treatment is aimed at eliminating or reducing the extent of deposition and is tailored for each patient. Early diagnosis is required for the optimal effect of treatment on patient survival and quality of life. An increased awareness among physicians of the spectrum of the disease and tools to aid its diagnosis is of increasing importance.
authors.affiliation: Amyloidosis Treatment and Research Center, Boston University School of Medicine, 715 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
authors.forename: M F
authors.initials: MF
authors.lastname: Khan
authors.forename: R H
authors.initials: RH
authors.lastname: Falk
mesh_terms: D000686:Amyloidosis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004232:Diuretics / Q000627:therapeutic use; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D006801:Humans; D007150:Immunohistochemistry; D016377:Organ Transplantation; D011379:Prognosis; D011788:Quality of Life; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D004232:Diuretics