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Hereditary amyloidosis

• Overview

Definition:

Amyloidosis is a condition in which abnormal protein deposits in various tissues. These protein deposits damage the tissues and interfere with the function of the involved organ. The abnormal protein deposits are called amyloid, hence the name of this group of diseases.

Amyloidosis occurs in multiple forms: spontaneous, hereditary, and resulting from a cancer of the blood cells called myeloma. Hereditary amyloidosis is an inherited form that is transmitted as an autosomal dominant trait.

Alternative Names:

Amyloidosis - hereditary

• Review Date: 3/13/2006
• Reviewed By: Lamya Alarif, Ph.D., H.C.L.D., Immunology and Genetics Associates, McLean, VA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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