Overview
ABeta2M amyloidosis, also known as beta-2 microglobulin amyloidosis or dialysis-related amyloidosis (DRA), is a condition where a protein called beta-2 microglobulin builds up abnormally in the body and forms harmful deposits called amyloid. Normally, healthy kidneys filter this protein out of the blood. However, in people with long-term kidney failure who are on dialysis, the kidneys can no longer do this job, and the protein accumulates over time. These deposits tend to collect mainly in the joints, bones, and surrounding tissues, causing significant pain and disability. The most common symptoms include joint pain and stiffness, especially in the shoulders, wrists, and knees. Bone cysts can form, which may lead to fractures. A condition called carpal tunnel syndrome — where the wrist nerve gets compressed — is often one of the first signs. Over many years, amyloid deposits can also affect the heart and digestive system. The most effective treatment is a successful kidney transplant, which stops the buildup of beta-2 microglobulin. Newer, high-flux dialysis membranes can help remove more of the protein during dialysis sessions and may slow the disease. Pain management, physical therapy, and sometimes surgery are used to manage symptoms. There is currently no approved drug that directly removes or prevents amyloid deposits in this condition.
Also known as:
Key symptoms:
Joint pain, especially in the shoulders, wrists, hips, and kneesJoint stiffness that is often worse in the morningCarpal tunnel syndrome — numbness, tingling, or weakness in the handsBone cysts that can weaken bones and lead to fracturesSwelling around jointsDifficulty moving the shoulders or other large jointsPathological fractures — broken bones from minor injuriesDestructive arthritis affecting the spine (spondyloarthropathy)Neck pain or stiffness from spinal involvementIn advanced cases, heart problems such as irregular heartbeat or heart failureDigestive symptoms such as nausea or bowel problems in severe cases
Sporadic
Usually appears on its own, not inherited from a parent
Adult
Begins in adulthood (age 18 or older)
Treatments
No FDA-approved treatments are currently listed for ABeta2M amyloidosis.
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Specialists
View all specialists →No specialists are currently listed for ABeta2M amyloidosis.
Treatment Centers
8 centersBaylor College of Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🏥 NORDStanford Medicine Rare Disease Center ↗
Stanford Medicine
📍 Stanford, CA
🔬 UDNNIH Clinical Center Undiagnosed Diseases Program ↗
National Institutes of Health
📍 Bethesda, MD
🔬 UDNUCLA UDN Clinical Site ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
🔬 UDNBaylor College of Medicine UDN Clinical Site ↗
Baylor College of Medicine
📍 Houston, TX
🔬 UDNHarvard/MGH UDN Clinical Site ↗
Massachusetts General Hospital
📍 Boston, MA
🏥 NORDMayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine ↗
Mayo Clinic
📍 Rochester, MN
👤 Mayo Clinic Center for Individualized Medicine
🏥 NORDUCLA Rare Disease Day Program ↗
UCLA Health
📍 Los Angeles, CA
Travel Grants
No travel grants are currently matched to ABeta2M amyloidosis.
Community
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Caregiver Resources
NORD Caregiver Resources
Support, advocacy, and financial assistance for caregivers of rare disease patients.
Mental Health Support
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Family & Caregiver Grants
Financial assistance programs specifically for caregivers of rare disease patients.
Social Security Disability
Learn how rare disease patients may qualify for SSDI/SSI benefits.
Questions for your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment
- Q1.Am I a candidate for a kidney transplant, and would that help my amyloidosis?,Should I switch to a high-flux dialysis membrane, and would more frequent dialysis sessions help slow the disease?,What imaging or tests should I have regularly to monitor my joints and bones?,What are my options for managing joint pain, and are there any risks with long-term pain medications given my kidney condition?,Should I see a rheumatologist or orthopedic surgeon for my joint problems?,Are there any clinical trials for new treatments for beta-2 microglobulin amyloidosis that I might qualify for?,What signs should prompt me to go to the emergency room immediately?
Common questions about ABeta2M amyloidosis
What is ABeta2M amyloidosis?
ABeta2M amyloidosis, also known as beta-2 microglobulin amyloidosis or dialysis-related amyloidosis (DRA), is a condition where a protein called beta-2 microglobulin builds up abnormally in the body and forms harmful deposits called amyloid. Normally, healthy kidneys filter this protein out of the blood. However, in people with long-term kidney failure who are on dialysis, the kidneys can no longer do this job, and the protein accumulates over time. These deposits tend to collect mainly in the joints, bones, and surrounding tissues, causing significant pain and disability. The most common sym
How is ABeta2M amyloidosis inherited?
ABeta2M amyloidosis follows a sporadic inheritance pattern. Genetic counseling can help families understand recurrence risk and testing options.
At what age does ABeta2M amyloidosis typically begin?
Typical onset of ABeta2M amyloidosis is adult. Age of onset can vary across affected individuals.