What do I need to know about immunoglobulin light chain (AL) amyloidosis?

Blood Rev. 2012 Jul;26(4):137-54. doi: 10.1016/j.blre.2012.03.001. Epub 2012 Apr 25.

Abstract

Immunoglobulin light chain (AL) amyloidosis is the most common acquired systemic amyloidoses. Its presentation is often insidious and progressive, which may delay diagnosis. The interval between first symptoms and actual diagnosis along the intrinsic heterogeneity of tissue tropism create a wide spectrum of presentations, both in terms of scope and depth of symptoms and signs and functional status of patients. In this review, the authors review the pathogenesis, diagnosis and differential diagnosis of AL amyloidosis along with the prognosis and state-of-the-art management for patients with this affliction.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Amyloidosis / diagnosis
  • Amyloidosis / immunology*
  • Amyloidosis / pathology*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin Light Chains*
  • Prognosis

Substances

  • Immunoglobulin Light Chains