Immunohistochemistry of amyloid-related neuropathies

Studying eight sural nerve biopsy specimens of a biopsied trigeminal ganglions and peripheral nerves from eight autopsies, some of them retrieved 30 years ago, with a panel of antibodies against several types of amyloid revealed the presence of AF, AL of the lambda type, AA and ASs in peripheral nerve specimens while AB, AE, ASc, ASb, ACc, APrP could not be detected. Amyloid of the AF type in the endoneurial space was associated with loss of unmyelinated and small caliber myelinated axons. Availability of antibodies against respective types of amyloid enables retrospective identification of subtypes of amyloid and aids in further investigation and treatment of patients and their families. Thus, immunohistochemical analysis in peripheral nerve specimens is recommended when amyloid is apparent.