Abstract
Introduction: Cardiac amyloidosis is a clinical disorder defined as an extracellular deposition of protein in the heart. Typically, signs and symptoms of heart failure develop in the advanced disease. High index of suspicion is required for the diagnosis of this disorder. Results: A 62 years old male came to the cardiology clinic due to lower extremity edema, fatigue, dyspnea on exertion. He had a 3 month history of progressive lower leg edema. On physical examination he had a positive S4; lung sounds were diminished and there was dullness to percussion over the lower two thirds; and bilateral lower extremity edema. Hospital admission was decided for management of decompensated heart failure. On admission, the surface ECG showed normal sinus rhythm with low QRS voltage in the limb leads, a RBBB and LPFB. Initial laboratory reported elevated NT-proBNP: 13,816 pg/mL. Chest x-ray demonstrated right interstitial infiltration and bilateral pleural effusion. The echocardiogram revealed severe concentric hypertrophy of the left ventricle, an apical sparing left ventricle longitudinal strain, and an ejection fraction of 68%. A cardiac MRI showed concentric biventricular hypertrophy associated with extensive diffuse late gadolinium enhancement, suggestive of cardiac amyloidosis. Screening resulted in a Perugini score of 1 on Tc-PYP scintigraphy, elevated Kappa and Lambda light chains on serum, and kidney biopsy positive for amyloidosis. Hematology-oncology consultation was done and a daratumumab-CyBorD protocol was started. Conclusions: This case elucidated a stepwise diagnostic approach of cardiac amyloidosis in a patient presenting with signs and symptoms of heart failure. Amyloid AL cardiac amyloidosis and its repercussions are severe because it not only compromises by being infiltrative but also by its toxic capacity. A high index of suspicion and a multidisciplinary approach is needed in order to improve quality of life and prolong survival.
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