Abstract

We conducted a cross-sectional study to characterize health-related quality of life and symptom burden in individuals living with light chain (AL) amyloidosis. Members of the Amyloidosis Support Groups, Inc. with AL amyloidosis who consented to this IRB-approved survey provided information on their amyloidosis diagnosis, treatment, symptoms, and functioning. HRQL was measured using PROMIS and PRO-CTCAE questionnaires. Among 297 participants who responded, the median age at diagnosis was 60years (23-82) with 52% female and 90% white race. There were 69% AL (lambda) and 39% reported 3 or more organs involved with amyloidosis (58% cardiac, 58% renal, 30% neurological AL). Time from diagnosis was less than 2years in 64 (22%), 2-5years in 105 (36%), > 5years in 126 (43%), and unknown in 2 (< 1%) individuals. Therapy included prior chemotherapy in 88% and stem cell transplant in 52%. Fifty percent of the cohort was on active treatment. Multiple domains were impaired in AL amyloidosis compared to the general population, including physical function, fatigue, and social roles. While highest among those within 2years of diagnosis, high symptom burden was also seen in long-term survivors. A trend to decreased severity and number of impaired symptoms was seen with longer treatment-free interval but many symptoms remained persistent. Significant and persistent symptom burden is seen in AL amyloidosis. Patient-reported outcomes should be routinely measured and used to provide best supportive care to all AL amyloidosis patients, including long-term survivors and those not on active therapy.

Full Text
Published version (Free)

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call