Delayed Diagnosis of Cardiac Amyloidosis Secondary to Multiple Myeloma

Ahmad Qatanani1, Shereen Dahab1, Steven Douedi1

  • 1Department of Medicine, Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune, NJ 07753, USA.

Journal of Medical Cases
|October 25, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Cardiac amyloidosis, a rare condition, can rapidly cause heart failure before multiple myeloma symptoms appear. Early diagnosis is crucial for patients presenting with new-onset congestive heart failure.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Oncology
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • Cardiac amyloidosis is a rare, aggressive condition with poor prognosis.
  • Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a common presentation, particularly in older adults.
  • Median survival after CHF onset is approximately six months.

Observation:

  • An 83-year-old male presented with symptoms of new-onset congestive heart failure (CHF).
  • Echocardiogram showed strain patterns indicative of cardiac amyloidosis.
  • Bone marrow biopsy confirmed multiple myeloma.

Findings:

  • The patient's cardiac amyloidosis was secondary to multiple myeloma.
  • Despite prompt treatment with chemotherapy and steroids, the patient's condition rapidly deteriorated.
  • The case highlights that cardiac amyloidosis can precede overt multiple myeloma symptoms.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering cardiac amyloidosis in elderly patients with unexplained, rapidly progressing CHF.
  • Early detection of secondary cardiac amyloidosis may allow for timely intervention, potentially improving outcomes.
  • Further research into the early diagnostic markers and treatment strategies for myeloma-related cardiac amyloidosis is warranted.

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