AL type cardiac amyloidosis: a devastating fatal disease

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Oncology
• Nephrology

Background:

• Cardiac amyloidosis is a rare condition with a poor prognosis.
• Often diagnosed late due to non-specific symptoms, leading to multi-organ involvement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of systemic AL amyloidosis with significant cardiac and renal involvement.
• To highlight the association with multiple myeloma and the challenges in management.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 60-year-old male with progressive edema, dyspnea, and weight gain.
• Diagnostic workup included elevated cardiac biomarkers, EKG, echocardiography, and biopsies.
• Confirmed AL type cardiac amyloidosis and multiple myeloma.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with symptoms suggestive of advanced cardiac involvement and renal compromise.
• Diagnostic findings confirmed AL amyloidosis and multiple myeloma.
• Despite treatment with bortezomib, cyclophosphamide, and dexamethasone, the patient's condition deteriorated, leading to cardiac arrest.

Conclusions:

• Cardiac involvement in AL amyloidosis significantly increases morbidity and mortality.
• Management requires a coordinated approach between cardiology and oncology.
• Outcomes for AL-type cardiac amyloidosis remain poor despite advancements in diagnostics and treatment.