How to Recognize Cardiac Amyloidosis: Explaining With Clinical Case

Abstract

Cardiac amyloidosis is a rare systemic condition in which amyloid proteins accumulate outside the cells of the heart. These proteins can be deposited in various parts of the heart, including the valves, endocardium, myocardium and pericardium. This abnormal protein deposition can disrupt normal heart function, leading to a range of symptoms and complications, including heart failure, arrhythmias, and even sudden cardiac death. Diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis is suspected based on characteristic findings, electrocardiogram abnormalities, and echocardiographic features, which prompt further evaluation and confirmation. We present the case of a 57-year-old female who was hospitalized due to significant exertional dyspnea, hypotension, lower extremity edema, and proteinuria. The aim of this case report is to augment clinicians' understanding of this condition and to minimize the interval between symptom onset and diagnosis, thereby potentially improving the prognosis of affected patients.