A Standardized Approach to the Diagnosis and Management of Cardiac Amyloidosis
What is Amyloidosis?
Amyloidosis is a rare condition in which the body produces an abnormal protein that can be deposited in various organs, including the heart. When these proteins deposit, they can damage the structure and function of the heart, causing heart failure and abnormal heart rhythms.
Cardiac amyloidosis is a chronic condition that requires expert care. Early diagnosis and intervention are key. Piedmont specialists can access the latest diagnostic tools, multidisciplinary partners and the most effective, tailored treatments.
Types of Cardiac Amyloidosis
There are two main types of cardiac amyloidosis:
- Transthyretin (TTR) amyloidosis is the most common type. TTR amyloidosis occurs when the TTR protein made by the liver is altered by normal aging or by a genetic mutation.
- Light chain (AL) amyloidosis is rare but more aggressive. AL amyloidosis is caused by abnormal cells in the bone marrow.
Diagnosing Cardiac Amyloidosis
Different types of amyloidosis have different treatment regimens, so the correct diagnosis is important to help you get the right treatment as soon as possible.
From laboratory testing to advanced imaging, every test needed to definitively diagnose your cardiac amyloidosis is available within the Piedmont system.
Piedmont cardiologists can diagnose cardiac amyloidosis and identify which type so that you receive the right treatment. Your doctors may order one or more of the following tests:
- Laboratory Testing
- Advanced Imaging:
- Strain Echocardiography
- PYP (Technetium Pyrophosphate Scintigraphy) Scan
- Cardiac MRI
- Endomyocardial biopsy
- Genetic Testing
Multidisciplinary Care By a Team of Experts
Amyloidosis can affect more than one organ or body system at a time. At Piedmont, our team of integrated specialists works together to deliver comprehensive, complementary treatment.
Meet Our Team
Treating Cardiac Amyloidosis
It is important for cardiac amyloidosis to be diagnosed and treated early. Piedmont offers access to all current therapies and clinical research trials. While there is not yet a cure for the disease, recent advances in treatment can slow the progression of the disease and improve symptoms.
Treatments for TTR Cardiac Amyloidosis
Oral medications, such as Tafamidis, can reduce the production of abnormal amyloid protein deposited in the heart.
Because TTR can be hereditary, Piedmont offers genetic screening of family members. For patients with hereditary TTR with neurologic manifestations, our neurologists can help prescribe additional therapies.
Treatments for AL Cardiac Amyloidosis
AL amyloidosis often affects multiple organs and is treated by hematologists with therapies that target its source in the bone marrow. Cardiologists help manage the heart’s involvement with treatments to minimize any heart failure and abnormal heart rhythms. Because AL amyloidosis can be aggressive and fast-moving, starting treatment as soon as possible is vital.
Access to Clinical Trials
Piedmont is involved in ongoing clinical trials to help lead the effort to learn more about this disease. Learn more about research trials at Piedmont.
Provider Resources
Make an Appointment or Refer a Patient
We offer convenient locations for amyloidosis care close to home. We provide support along the continuum of care, including to patients and their families, and work with referring physicians to manage each patient's care with a personalized approach. Same-day appointments are available. To make an appointment or to refer a patient, call 404-605-1964.