Key Information
Cardiac amyloidosis, or stiff heart syndrome, occurs when abnormal protein deposits build up in the heart muscle, making it less flexible and affecting its function. Symptoms may resemble heart failure and other cardiovascular conditions, contributing to underdiagnosis. Diagnosis involves imaging, biopsy, or genetic testing, while treatment focuses on managing symptoms, slowing amyloid buildup, and addressing underlying causes.
Introduction
It is well-documented that protein metabolism declines throughout the aging process, and that protein modification occurs, which has several consequences for overall health. Of these, stiffening of the heart is a common result of protein changes, yet one of the least diagnosed. Varying degrees of cardiac amyloidosis are likely to form part of the aging process and may predispose some individuals to heart failure.
The article below places stiff heart syndrome in the spotlight, addressing what it is, common symptoms, causes, mechanisms, as well as how to prevent and treat the condition.