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Rapid Generation of Amyloid from Native Proteins In vitro
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Rapid Generation of Amyloid from Native Proteins In vitro

Published on: December 5, 2013

Dialysis-related amyloidosis

G Dzido1, S M Sprague

  • 1Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Medical School, Evanston Northwestern Healthcare, Evanston, IL 60201, USA.

Minerva Urologica E Nefrologica = the Italian Journal of Urology and Nephrology
|July 9, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Dialysis-related amyloidosis (DRA) stems from beta(2)-microglobulin modifications in long-term dialysis patients. Managing beta(2)M levels can improve symptoms and slow disease progression.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Biochemistry
  • Rheumatology

Background:

  • Dialysis-related amyloidosis (DRA) is a significant complication in patients undergoing long-term dialysis.
  • It arises from the accumulation of beta(2)-microglobulin (beta(2)M) amyloid fibrils in joints and surrounding tissues.
  • This condition affects patients with chronic renal failure, including those on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the chemical modifications of beta(2)M leading to amyloid fibril formation.
  • To elucidate the pathogenesis of dialysis-related amyloidosis.
  • To summarize the clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment strategies for DRA.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on the chemical changes in beta(2)M.
  • Analysis of studies detailing the deposition of beta(2)amyloid fibrils.
  • Compilation of clinical and radiographic findings associated with DRA.

Main Results:

  • Chemical modifications of beta(2)M are central to the formation of beta(2)amyloid.
  • Common clinical presentations include carpal tunnel syndrome, shoulder pain, and destructive arthropathy.
  • Achieving normal serum beta(2)M levels in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients can lead to clinical improvement.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding beta(2)M modifications is key to addressing DRA.
  • Treatment aims to normalize beta(2)M levels, manage symptoms with corticosteroids or NSAIDs, and consider surgery for specific complications.
  • Effective management can improve quality of life for affected patients.

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