Hereditary ATTR amyloidosis: burden of illness and diagnostic challenges

Hereditary transthyretin-mediated (hATTR) amyloidosis is a progressive disease characterized by deposition of amyloid fibrils in various organs and tissues of the body. There are a wide variety of clinical presentations for this multisystemic disorder, so it is often misdiagnosed or subject to delayed diagnosis. Although the exact prevalence is difficult to determine, existing estimates suggest a worldwide prevalence of 50,000 individuals, with varying phenotypic presentations of disease. Due to the heterogeneous nature of its presentation, incorrect or delayed diagnosis can severely impact quality of life for these patients. hATTR amyloidosis can lead to significant disability and mortality. After an accurate diagnosis of hATTR amyloidosis is established, new patients should undergo appropriate therapy as soon as possible. Current treatment options for hATTR amyloidosis are limited, but orthotopic liver transplant serves as an established option for patients with early-stage disease. Consequently, there is a need for new, effective, and safe therapies.