Cardiac compromise due to AL amyloidosis: dissimilarity as an attribute. Report of 3 cases

Abstract

AL amyloidosis (formerly called primary amyloidosis) is a rare systemic entity, with an unknown incidence in the world, which can develop heart involvement in almost half of patients, leading to restrictive cardiomyopathy by amyloid tissue deposit. We present 3 cases of patients who consulted for acute heart failure and syncope, in which the diagnosis of AL amyloidosis was finally confirmed. We conclude with a brief review of the literature, emphasizing clinical elements for an early diagnosis.

Keywords

• amyloid
• amyloidosis
• heart failure
• restrictive cardiomyopathy
• syncope