[Identification of asymptomatic forms of type I amyloid neuropathy]

Results of DNA analysis in 8 patients with type I amyloid neuropathy (ANI) are reported. A direct link exists between the mutated gene of the prealbumin and the ANI. Carriers of the gene mutating for prealbumin were identified. Autoradiographs after hybridization with a prealbumin probe allowed detection of children who will develop the disease. The molecular probe used was developed for the Japanese form of NAI and allowed affirmation of the identical nature of the neuropathy identified by Araki in Kiu-Shiu and the Portuguese form of Porto.