Atypical beta 2-microglobulin amyloidosis following short-term hemodialysis

A 47-year-old white female renal transplant recipient presented complaining of "wrinkles" that predominantly involved the palmar aspect of her fingers. Light-microscopic examination of biopsy material obtained from affected areas revealed deposits of amorphous, hyaline material in the reticular dermis that contrasted sharply with collagen and elastic fibers. Examination by transmission electron microscopy disclosed a mass of fibrils recognizable as amyloid, despite negative histochemical staining with both Congo red and crystal violet. Immunoperoxidase staining for beta 2-microglobulin was positive. Along with an elevated serum beta 2-microglobulin level, this finding supported the diagnosis of hemodialysis-induced amyloidosis (HIA). Unusual features of our case include lesion location, short duration of antecedent hemodialysis therapy, and negative staining for amyloid using conventional staining techniques.