When an abnormal protein, amyloid, gets deposited in the organs or tissues, the condition is known as amyloidosis. When such a condition is developed, the functions of the affected tissue or organ are disrupted as well. Amyloidosis is a serious condition and can cause health problems, which could be life-threatening, causing failure of organs. Amyloid deposits can be the result of several different proteins; it has been associated with severe health problems.

The type of amyloidosis depends on the place where the protein has been collected. The deposition of amyloid could be all over the body or in one place. Various types of amyloidosis and their associated causes:

1. Light chain amyloidosis (AL)
The immunoglobulin light chain amyloidosis (AL) is one of the common types of amyloidosis. This is also known as primary amyloidosis. The amyloid light chain is a type of protein responsible for this type of amyloidosis. There is no known cause for this type of amyloidosis; however, it develops when the marrow of the bone forms abnormal antibodies that cannot be broken down. This type of amyloidosis is associated with a type of blood cancer known as multiple myeloma. This can affect the nerves, intestines, liver, heart, and kidneys.

2. Secondary amyloidosis (AA)
Formerly known as the secondary amyloidosis, AA amyloidosis is a condition that occurs due to another inflammatory disease like ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and rheumatoid arthritis or a chronic infection. This type of amyloidosis affects the person’s kidneys but it can also affect the heart, liver, and digestive tract as well. AA stands for amyloid type A protein that is the main cause for the development of this type of amyloidosis.

3. Dialysis-related amyloidosis
Dialysis-related amyloidosis is also another common form of amyloidosis. This is more common among the elderly and individuals who have been put on dialysis for over five years. This type of amyloidosis is a result of deposition of beta 2 macroglobulin that builds up in the blood. The deposition can be built in various tissues but is mostly affects the tendons, joints, and bones.

4. Familial amyloidosis
Hereditary or familial amyloidosis is a rare type of amyloidosis. As the name suggests, it is passed on from one generation to another. It usually affects the kidneys, heart, nerves, and liver. Several genetic defects are associated with risk of developing amyloidosis.

5. Senile amyloidosis
Senile systemic amyloidosis occurs due to the deposition of normal transthyretin in the heart and other tissues. It is more common among middle-aged men. Although there have been speculations between the link of amyloidosis and Alzheimer’s disease, there are rare instances that affect the brain.

6. Organ specific amyloidosis
Organ-specific amyloidosis, on the other hand, is caused due to the deposition of the amyloid protein in a single organ. This could also include the skin.