Source
health.com
Transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR) is a condition where a normal protein in the body called transthyretin becomes unstable, forms clumps, and builds up in organs like the heart. Prognosis has improved with earlier diagnosis and new treatments, but outcomes can vary. Several factors can influence how the disease progresses.1
1. The Type of ATTR You Have
There are several types of transthyretin amyloidosis. The type you have can affect your prognosis:
- Hereditary ATTR cardiomyopathy (hATTR-CM): This type is passed down through families and happens when a change in the transthyretin gene causes the protein to misfold and build up in the heart. The disease has a poor prognosis. Death usually occurs about 11 years after symptoms first start and about four years after you've finally been diagnosed with ATTR.2
- Wild-type ATTR cardiomyopathy (wATTR-CM): This type is not inherited and usually develops later in life, more often in men. It mainly affects the heart but has also been linked to carpal tunnel syndrome, nerve pain, or back problems that may appear years before heart symptoms start. People with wild-type ATTR-CM usually survive about two to five years after their diagnosis.3
Transthyretin amyloid polyneuropathy (TTR-PN): This type is inherited and affects the nerves. You may need a cane in three to five years and a wheelchair in 5-10 years. Without treatment, as the condition worsens, death can occur.
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