Excess protein deposits in the body are usually described as amyloidosis. This condition is characterized by accumulation of abnormal proteins called amyloids in the body's tissues or organs, including the heart, spleen, kidneys, nervous system and gastrointestinal tract. These proteins typically come from the cells in bone marrow. The Amyloidosis Foundation estimates that about 50,000 people are affected with this disease each year. Its severity depends on the organs it affects.
Three Types
There are three main types of amyloidosis. The first is referred to as primary and occurs when bone marrow produces too much of certain fragments of antibody proteins that result in protein buildup in the body. The second is familial, which is genetically passed down and usually affects the nervous system and the kidneys. The third is secondary and develops with a chronic disease, infection or illness.
Causes
There is no known cause for amyloidosis, and research suggests there may be many reasons for contracting this disease. Researchers do know that familial amyloidosis results from a genetic mutation that causes the body to manufacture abnormal protein, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Amyloidosis is more likely to form in people who have immune system difficulties. Once amyloid proteins begin to be deposited in the body, they usually accumulate in one area, most commonly the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys or nervous system.
High-Risk Groups
Although the cause or causes of this disease have been difficult to pinpoint, the University of Maryland Medical Center says researchers have been able to determine risk groups. It lists those who have chronic infections or inflammatory diseases as highly at risk, along with people over the age 50. This is partly because of the body's natural aging process, which deposits protein in the body over a lifetime, and partly because this condition can go undetected for many years. Gender may play a role as well, as studies indicate that two-thirds of those with amyloidosis are men, according to the medical center's website.
Diagnosis
Amyloidosis is difficult to diagnosis, because there are usually no acute symptoms attached to it. While many assume that eating a high-protein diet can lead to excessive protein buildup, the Mayo Clinic reports that diet has no bearing on whether a person contracts this disease. The clinic also notes there is no evidence to suggest a connection between stress or occupation and amyloidosis. Thus, no known preventive measures decrease your ability to contract this disease. The only way your doctor can definitively diagnose amyloidosis is with blood and urine tests and often with a biopsy, which removes a small amount of tissue to test. While there is no cure for amyloidosis, different medications and diets may be implemented by your physician to try to stabilize your condition.
