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Rapid development of renal failure secondary to AA-type amyloidosis in a patient with polymyalgia rheumatica

Muhammad Masoom Javaid1, Manivarma Kamalanathan, Sui Phin Kon

  • 1Department of Nephrology, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London SE5 9RS, UK. mmjavaid@doctors.org.uk

Journal of Renal Care
|October 26, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a rare cause of AA amyloidosis, a serious kidney complication. Early monitoring of kidney function in PMR patients is crucial for timely diagnosis and management.

Area of Science:

  • Rheumatology
  • Nephrology
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a prevalent chronic inflammatory condition primarily affecting individuals over 50.
  • Renal involvement in PMR is exceptionally uncommon, with limited documented cases of secondary AA amyloidosis.
  • AA amyloidosis is a systemic disease caused by chronic inflammation, leading to amyloid protein deposition in organs.

Observation:

  • A case study involving a patient with a history of PMR.
  • The patient presented with nephrotic-range proteinuria and rapidly declining renal function.
  • These renal complications emerged within 18 months of the initial PMR symptom onset.

Findings:

  • The patient's renal deterioration was attributed to AA amyloidosis secondary to Polymyalgia rheumatica.
  • This case provides further evidence for a potential association between PMR and AA amyloidosis.
  • The rapid progression of renal dysfunction underscores the severity of this rare complication.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the critical importance of vigilant renal function monitoring in patients diagnosed with PMR.
  • Early detection of renal involvement can lead to prompt intervention and potentially mitigate severe kidney damage.
  • Further research may be warranted to elucidate the mechanisms linking PMR and AA amyloidosis and to establish optimal surveillance protocols.

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