Steven A. Sandler, M.D.
Board-Certified in
Hematology & Oncology

Telephone Numbers
Office: (847) 933-0875
Fax: (847) 933-0878
Answering Service: (773) 594-7340

Skokie Office
9669 Kenton, Suite 510
Skokie, IL 60076
Map and directions

Chicago Office
7447 W. Talcott Ave., Suite 318
Chicago, IL 60631
Map and directions

Call us at 847-933-0875 or send Dr. Sandler a message via the form below. Please note that this form is for non-emergencies only.

Amyloidosis and Treatment

About Amyloidosis

Amyloidosis is a group of diseases in which protein is deposited in specific organs (localized amyloidosis) or throughout the body (systemic amyloidosis). Amyloidosis may be either primary with no known cause or secondary to other illnesses. Secondary amyloidosis can be caused by multiple myeloma, chronic infections such as tuberculosis or osteomyelitis, or chronic inflammatory diseases including rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.

Generally, primary amyloidosis affects the nerves, skin, tongue, joints, heart, and liver; secondary amyloidosis can affect the spleen, kidneys, liver, and adrenal glands. Symptoms vary widely depending upon the site of amyloidosis. Amyloidosis may be inherited or acquired.

Signs and symptoms may include:

• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Loss of appetite and weight-loss
• Numbness and tingling
• Swollen tongue

Amyloidosis Treatment

Amyloidosis treatment has improved dramatically because of the ability to identify what type of amyloidosis a patient has. The usual treatment for amyloidosis is similar to treatment for multiple myeloma, which involves a combination of drug therapies.  Treatment also includes stem cell transplant.