Familial transthyretin amyloidosis, Amyloidosis, hereditary, transthyretin-related, Transthyretin amyloidosis, Amyloidosis Transthyretin related, Transthyretin amyloid neuropathy, TTR amyloid neuropathy, Transthyretin amyloid polyneuropathy, Hereditary ATTR amyloidosis

Overview

Type of disease: Rare Condition or Disease

Familial transthyretin amyloidosis (FTA) is a rare inherited condition characterized by abnormal build-up of a protein called amyloid in the body’s organs and tissues. Symptoms start in adulthood and get worse over time. Signs and symptoms depend on where the amyloid protein is building up. Amyloid build-up in the nerves of the peripheral nervous system causes a loss of sensation in the lower limbs, feet, and hands (peripheral neuropathy). Amyloid build-up can also affect the involuntary body functions, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and digestion. Other areas of the body that may be affected are the heart, kidneys, eyes, and gastrointestinal tract.