Early diagnosis of AL amyloidosis in haematology, cardiology, neurology, renal and general clinics: A British Society for Haematology Guideline

Summary

AL amyloidosis is caused by a plasma cell clone that produces abnormal light chains that misfold and deposit as amyloid fibrils in tissues and thus affect organ function. The survival of patients with systemic amyloid light-chain (AL) amyloidosis largely depends on the extent of end-organ damage. Patients with early-stage disease can expect approximately 80% survival at 5 years with contemporary treatment, compared to less than 30% for those with advanced disease. The aim of this guideline is to facilitate recognition and raise suspicion of amyloidosis. It is important to recognise that amyloidosis can present in any clinic, including general medicine/care of the elderly and general practice.