What is Secondary Systemic Amyloidosis?
Secondary systemic amyloidosis is a condition where there is accumulation of abnormal proteins in organs and tissues. The clumps of the abnormal proteins are termed as amyloid deposits.
Why the Name Secondary Systemic Amyloidosis?
It is known as Secondary Systemic Amyloidosis because this condition occurs as a result of another disease or condition. Secondary Amyloidosis can occur as a result of chronic inflammatory disease or chronic infection. In primary amyloidosis, there is no disease which causes this condition. It is termed as “systemic,” because this condition affects the entire body.
What are the Causes & Risk Factors of Secondary Systemic Amyloidosis?
The exact cause of Secondary Systemic Amyloidosis is not clear. A person has increased for developing secondary systemic amyloidosis if he/she is suffering from chronic inflammation or infection.
Secondary Systemic Amyloidosis can occur with the following: bronchiectasis, ankylosing spondylitis, familial mediterranean fever, chronic osteomyelitis, cystic fibrosis, hodgkin disease, hairy cell leukemia, kidney dialysis, juvenile chronic arthritis, multiple myeloma, rheumatoid arthritis, reiter syndrome, Sjogren’s syndrome, tuberculosis and systemic lupus erythematosus
What are the Symptoms of Secondary Systemic Amyloidosis?
Depending on the body tissue which is affected by the deposits of protein, the symptoms of secondary systemic amyloidosis are produced. These protein deposits damage the normal tissues which produce the signs or symptoms of this condition such as:
- Fatigue.
- Bleeding in the skin.
- Irregular heartbeat.
- Rash.
- Numbness of hands and feet.
- Difficulty in swallowing.
- Shortness of breath.
- Swollen tongue.
- Swelling in arms or legs.
- Weight loss.
- Weak grip of the hand.
What is the Treatment of Secondary Systemic Amyloidosis?
The underlying condition due to which the secondary systemic amyloidosis has developed should be treated. As of now, there is no particular treatment for amyloidosis itself. There are some patients who may need a stem cell or bone marrow transplant.
Can Secondary Systemic Amyloidosis be Prevented?
If anyone is suffering from any condition or disease, which will increase the risk of developing Secondary Systemic Amyloidosis, then it is imperative to treat this condition immediately. Addressing the primary condition helps in preventing Secondary Systemic Amyloidosis.
