How to Recognize Cardiac Amyloidosis: Clinical Case Explanation

Cardiac amyloidosis is a rare systemic condition characterized by the extracellular accumulation of amyloid proteins in the heart. These proteins can be deposited in various cardiac structures, including the valves, endocardium, myocardium, and pericardium. This abnormal protein deposition can disrupt normal heart function, leading to a range of symptoms and complications, such as heart failure, arrhythmias, and even sudden cardiac death. The diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis is typically suspected based on characteristic clinical features, electrocardiogram abnormalities, and echocardiographic findings, which prompt further evaluation and confirmation. We present the case of a 57-year-old woman hospitalized with significant exertional dyspnea, hypotension, lower extremity edema, and proteinuria. The aim of this case report is to enhance clinicians' understanding of this condition and to reduce the interval between symptom onset and diagnosis, thereby potentially improving the prognosis for affected patients.

Keywords: Amyloidosis, cardiovascular magnetic resonance, echocardiography, heart failure