About Amyloidosis
Key Highlights
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Comprehensive diagnostic approach to identify the specific type of amyloidosis, which is crucial for targeted treatment.Multidisciplinary management led by an Internal Medicine specialist coordinating care with cardiologists, nephrologists, neurologists, and other experts.Focus on halting or slowing the production of amyloid proteins to prevent further organ damage.Personalized treatment plans that may include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or novel targeted therapies depending on the amyloid type.Integrated supportive care to manage symptoms and improve the patient's overall quality of life.
Who is this surgery for?
- Unexplained symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, and swelling in the ankles and legs (edema).
- Signs of specific organ involvement: protein in urine (kidneys), an enlarged tongue, heart failure symptoms (shortness of breath, palpitations), peripheral neuropathy (numbness, tingling), or gastrointestinal issues (diarrhea, feeling full quickly).
- Abnormal lab findings like elevated serum free light chains, abnormal serum protein electrophoresis, or evidence of organ dysfunction without a clear cause.
- Family history of amyloidosis or related conditions.
- Presence of a chronic inflammatory condition or blood cell disorder that can predispose to amyloid formation.
How to prepare
- Detailed review of the patient's complete medical history and a thorough physical examination.
- Completion of initial blood tests (complete blood count, kidney and liver function tests, serum free light chains) and 24-hour urine collection to check for protein.
- Imaging studies such as echocardiogram, MRI, or nuclear scans (e.g., DPD/PYP scan) to assess heart and other organ involvement.
- Consultation with relevant specialists (e.g., cardiology, nephrology) based on suspected organ damage.
- Psychological preparation and counseling regarding the diagnostic process and potential treatment pathways.
- For a biopsy: fasting instructions and temporary cessation of certain medications like blood thinners, as advised by the physician.
Risks & possible complications
- Risks associated with diagnostic biopsies, including bleeding, infection, bruising, or pain at the biopsy site.
- Potential for adverse reactions to medications used in treatment, such as chemotherapy agents or immunomodulators (e.g., infections, low blood counts, allergic reactions).
- Progression of the disease leading to irreversible organ failure (heart, kidney, liver, nerves) if diagnosis or treatment is delayed.
- Complications from the amyloid deposits themselves, such as cardiac arrhythmias, kidney failure requiring dialysis, or severe neuropathy.
- Side effects from supportive treatments, like diuretics for heart failure or medications for neuropathy.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Recovery is highly variable and depends on the type of amyloidosis, organs affected, and the specific treatments administered.
- Close monitoring of organ function and treatment response through regular blood tests, urine tests, and imaging.
- Management of treatment side effects, which may require supportive medications and lifestyle adjustments.
- Ongoing symptom management for chronic issues like fatigue, pain, or dietary modifications for gastrointestinal or kidney involvement.
- Long-term follow-up with the Internal Medicine specialist and other involved specialists to adjust therapy and manage the chronic nature of the disease.
- Possible referral to palliative care services for symptom management and support at any stage of the illness.
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Typical hospital stay: Varies (0 days for outpatient biopsy to several weeks for intensive treatment)
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Expected recovery time: Ongoing (Months to years for disease management)
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering amyloidosis in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for amyloidosis in Turkey include Istinye Üniversitesi Hastanesi Liv, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform amyloidosis. MediFyr helps you compare internal medicine specialists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for amyloidosis compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | USD 544 – USD 16,315 | Varies (0 days for outpatient biopsy to several weeks for intensive treatment) | ~ Ongoing (Months to years for disease management) | Know More |
| Turkey | USD 4,026 – USD 120,788 | Varies (0 days for outpatient biopsy to several weeks for intensive treatment) | ~ Ongoing (Months to years for disease management) | Know More |
Top hospitals for Amyloidosis in Turkey
These partner hospitals in Turkey have dedicated internal medicine teams and experience managing patients undergoing amyloidosis.
My 82-year-old father was admitted with...
My 82-year-old father was admitted with severe pneumonia and multiple complications. Dr. Suhas MS not only managed his complex condition with expertise but took the time to explain every medication change to our family. His compassionate approach made a frightening situation manageable, and Dad is now recovering beautifully at home.