In a healthy body, proteins fold into specific shapes, allowing them to perform their biological functions correctly. However, in amyloidosis, certain proteins misfold into an abnormal shape, forming insoluble amyloid fibrils that accumulate in tissues. Over time, these amyloid deposits cause progressive damage by compressing organs, interfering with their function, and triggering inflammation. This results in a variety of symptoms, depending on which organ is affected.
For example, when amyloid accumulates in the heart, it makes the heart walls stiff and less efficient at pumping blood, leading to heart failure. If amyloid deposits occur in the kidneys, they can cause excessive protein loss in the urine, eventually leading to kidney failure. In cases where amyloidosis affects the nervous system, it can cause pain, numbness, and weakness, particularly in the hands and feet.
The severity of the disease depends on the type of amyloid protein involved and how quickly it spreads. Some forms of amyloidosis progress slowly over many years, while others can lead to rapid organ failure if not treated early.