Amyloidosis Diagnosis
Although amyloidosis is a rare disease, it is under-diagnosed. Many people die from complications of amyloidosis without ever receiving a diagnosis.
At UC Davis, your physician begins by conducting a complete medical history and physical exam.
Various tests may be used to diagnose amyloidosis and identify the responsible protein.
Technetium Pyrophosphate (PYP) Scan
This bone scan can detect ATTR in the heart.
A blood test is then used to determine if the amyloidosis is hereditary or wild-type
Other tests may be used to monitor organ function or screen family members
Blood Tests
To assess the kidneys, heart, and liver
MRI
Help in characterizing the myocardial tissue
Electrocardiogram (EKG) and Echocardiogram (Heart Ultrasound)
To monitor the function of the heart
Genetic Testing
May be used in hereditary ATTR amyloidosis. Close family members may have as high as a 50% chance of also having the mutation