Amyloidosis occurs when abnormal, misfolded proteins deposit in different parts of the body, including the carpal tunnel in the wrist. It often builds up in the heart as well, but it is possible to identify and treat it before heart symptoms appear.
“Just because you had carpal tunnel syndrome or carpal tunnel surgery does not mean you have amyloid,” said an official. “But it is important to highlight that upwards of maybe 10% of patients that have carpal tunnel syndrome, the cause may be amyloid.”
“Is it a reason to panic and rush to the ER? Absolutely not,” the official said. “Is it something you should bring up to your primary care doctor or the next time you see your hand surgeon or your orthopedic doctor? Yeah, I think that’s reasonable.”
Rochester Regional Health is working with hand surgeons across the region to identify high-risk patients and streamline referrals for cardiac testing. The earlier amyloidosis is caught, the better.