What infection causes amyloidosis? What organs are affected by amyloidosis? Can amyloidosis be cured?

Amyloidosis is not caused by an infection. Amyloidosis is a rare disease caused by the abnormal accumulation of amyloid proteins in various tissues and organs throughout the body.

This amyloid buildup can make the organs not work properly. In amyloidosis, abnormal proteins are produced and deposited in tissues and organs, causing damage to their structure and function. Organs that may be affected include the heart, kidneys, liver, spleen, nervous system and digestive tract.

There is not currently a cure for amyloidosis. The amyloid deposits cannot be directly removed. Treatment for amyloidosis may include medications to reduce the production of abnormal proteins, chemotherapy, and organ or stem cell transplant.

There are several types of amyloidosis. The most common types include AL amyloidosis, AA amyloidosis and hereditary amyloidosis. Some types of amyloidosis occur with other diseases.

Severe amyloidosis can lead to life-threatening organ failure. Amyloidosis can be triggered by another condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis or tuberculosis.