[AL amyloidosis : the race to diagnosis]

AL amyloidosis is a rare disease with a poor prognosis, which arises from a plasma cell clone producing an excess of light chains which are deposited in the tissues, causing severe organ damage, most often in the heart and kidneys. As soon as clinical suspicion arises, a few simple screening tests should be carried out rapidly, to avoid any delay in diagnosis. Indeed, the later the diagnosis, the shorter the survival (4-6 months for advanced cases). However, recent therapeutic advances have improved prognosis. This article summarizes the key points for general practitioners, internists and other specialists involved, which enable rapid diagnosis, and discuss the principles of treatment.