Amyloidosis is a group of rare conditions in which abnormal proteins called amyloid accumulate in tissues and organs. These deposits may interfere with normal organ function.

No. There are several types, distinguished by the protein that forms amyloid. Examples include AL, ATTR, AA, dialysis-related and localized amyloidosis.

No. Amyloidosis cannot spread from one person to another.

Some forms, particularly hereditary ATTR amyloidosis, can be inherited. Many other forms, including AL and wild-type ATTR, are not inherited in the same way.

It can affect the heart, kidneys, nerves, liver, digestive tract and other tissues. The organs involved depend on the amyloid type and the individual.

Possible signs include persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, breathlessness, leg swelling, tingling or numbness, and digestive changes. Symptoms can differ substantially between people.

Yes. Cardiac involvement may cause breathlessness, swelling, dizziness, palpitations or reduced exercise tolerance. These symptoms require appropriate clinical evaluation.

Foamy urine, swelling and abnormal urine-protein or kidney-function tests can be clues. Early kidney involvement may cause no noticeable symptoms.

No. These signs occur in many more common conditions. A healthcare professional must assess the symptoms and order appropriate investigations.

Doctors review symptoms and medical history, assess affected organs, and may order blood and urine tests, imaging and tissue testing. The specific investigation pathway depends on the suspected type.

A biopsy is often required to confirm amyloid deposits, especially for AL amyloidosis. In selected cases of suspected cardiac ATTR amyloidosis, a specialist may establish a diagnosis using specific nuclear imaging and appropriate blood testing without a heart biopsy.

Different amyloid proteins require different treatments. Correctly identifying the amyloid type is essential for a suitable care plan.

Generally, no. Blood and urine tests can identify important clues, but the diagnosis and type usually require other investigations selected by a specialist.

Genetic testing may be recommended when hereditary ATTR or another inherited form is suspected, and specialist genetic counselling may be helpful.

Yes. Treatment may slow or reduce production of the amyloid-forming protein and help manage symptoms. Options and outcomes depend on the amyloid type and affected organs.

No. AL treatment targets the plasma cells producing abnormal light chains; ATTR treatment targets transthyretin-related disease; and AA management focuses on controlling the underlying inflammation. Organ-supportive treatment may also be required.

There is no single cure for all forms. Some treatments can control the disease and improve outcomes, but lasting organ damage may remain and long-term follow-up is often necessary.

Care is often coordinated by specialists familiar with the amyloid type, such as haematologists, cardiologists, nephrologists and neurologists.

Some people remain active with appropriate treatment and symptom management. Activity plans should be individualised to organ involvement, symptoms and medical advice.

Bring a list of symptoms, current medicines, previous test reports, medical history and relevant family history. Write down questions about diagnosis, amyloid type, organ health and treatment.

Seek immediate emergency care for chest pain, sudden severe breathing difficulty, or fainting accompanied by concerning heart symptoms. Do not rely on online information during an emergency.

Patient-support organisations such as Amyloidosis Support Group India can help people access education and awareness resources. Medical decisions should always be made with a qualified care team.