Common Causes, Risk Factors, And Complications Of Amyloidosis

Abnormal Antibodies In Bone Marrow

Amyloid proteins are created in the bone marrow. Amyloidosis occurs when certain cells, called plasma cells, create abnormal antibodies in bone marrow. These then enter the bloodstream and leave excessive deposits of amyloid, which then lead to a buildup and blockage. Normal, healthy bodies have these chains of proteins and antibodies in their blood. In fact, they help to protect the body from many infections and illnesses. However, these abnormal chains clump together in a way not easily cleared away by the body. Over time, these clumps build up as deposits in the tissues and organs, which impedes their ability to function and gradually stops them altogether.

Age And Gender

An individual's age group and gender may put them at an increased risk of developing amyloidosis and experiencing related complications. Individuals younger than forty years old are at very low risk for developing amyloidosis in the absence of other risk factors. A type of amyloidosis referred to as senile amyloidosis is caused by transthyretin or TTR buildup in the tissues occurs more often in elderly patients. Senile amyloidosis that develops in the elderly population is known to have a more favorable complication and overall prognosis than primary amyloidosis that develops in individuals in their fifth decade of life or younger. The gender discrepancy among individuals affected by amyloidosis is negligible. However, some researchers have concluded primary amyloidosis affects males more often than females by a small percentage. Researchers have also concluded males are also more likely to experience cardiac involvement and dysfunction due to amyloidosis than females.