Cardiac Amyloidosis Conditions We Treat
Amyloidosis occurs when too much of a particular protein (amyloid) collects in the organs. The best amyloidosis care comes from a multidisciplinary team, such as the one at Cedars-Sinai. You receive coordinated services from experienced specialists, some of whom are internationally recognized. We are also one of the few programs in the region offering clinical trials testing new treatments.
- Amyloidosis is a rare, complex condition. Find out more about symptoms, diagnosis and treatments.
- AL Amyloidosis occurs when the bone marrow produces too much of a substance, light chains, found in white blood cells.
- ATTR Amyloidosis stems from problems with proteins in the liver.
AL and ATTR amyloidosis are among the most common conditions that lead to heart disease, but our team will also assess for more unusual causes to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
Evaluation and Diagnosis
Cardiac amyloidosis symptoms can affect many organs and are often similar to other medical conditions making it difficult to diagnose. This condition may be sporadic, age-related or familial. We offer specialized testing, including advanced heart imaging that is not widely available.
As an experienced multidisciplinary program, we diagnose cardiac amyloidosis with a high degree of confidence, including:
- Type (AL and ATTR amyloidosis are most common)
- Organs affected
- How advanced the disease is
After taking a detailed medical history and performing a thorough physical exam, your evaluation may continue with:
- Blood or urine tests
- Advanced imaging, including cardiac MRI or a pyrophosphate heart scan
- Heart biopsy, if necessary
- Genetic testing
- Additional tests and evaluations from specialists
Treatments
At Cedars-Sinai, you have access to the full range of cardiac amyloidosis treatments, some of which are not widely available. We are among the few programs on the West Coast testing new therapies through clinical trials. For advanced cardiac amyloidosis, you have access to one of the world’s largest and most experienced heart transplant programs.
Your personalized care plan may also include:
- Bone marrow transplant or chemotherapy (for AL amyloidosis)
- Heart failure treatments, including devices that help your heart pump blood (mechanical support)
- Medications to slow disease progression and treat side effects
- Special diet, including restrictions on fluid intake to ease strain on your heart
- Therapies to address complications, like low blood pressure and kidney disease
Have Questions or Need a Second Opinion?
To learn more or make an appointment, call or send a message to our cardiac amyloidosis experts. You also can have us call you back at your convenience.