Amyloidosis pertains to a group of diseases caused by the abnormal folding and then accumulation of protein in various parts of the body. Sometimes, these proteins are deposited in the heart resulting in cardiac amyloidosis. Cardiac amyloidosis is thought to be a rare disease, however, recent advances in diagnostic testing developed at Boston Medical Center in collaboration with other experts across the world suggest that it is likely more common than is presently appreciated.
BMC is an international referral center for the diagnosis and treatment of systemic amyloid diseases. BMC is one of the few hospitals nationwide that offers innovative treatments for amyloidosis, including stem cell transplantation for light-chain (AL) amyloidosis, with numerous ongoing clinical trials for all types of amyloidosis. The Amyloidosis Center, founded in 1960, employs a multidisciplinary approach to this disorder that frequently affects multiple organ systems. Cardiologists diagnose and treat the damage amyloidosis can cause to the heart and coordinate innovative care with other specialists at BMC.
Areas of active clinical research relevant to cardiac amyloidosis include cardiac imaging that uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and nuclear imaging (using the pyrophosphate or PYP scan), studies examining the biochemical basis of amyloid toxicity, and projects examining the best treatment of patients with cardiac amyloidosis.
For further information regarding the program or ongoing research studies, or to refer a patient with amyloidosis, please contact the program office at 617.638.4317 or visit the Amyloid Center Webpage.