Cause 9. Trauma and Localized Amyloidosis: The Impact of Physical Injury on Protein Accumulation
Trauma or physical injury can sometimes be an unexpected trigger for a specific type of amyloidosis known as localized amyloidosis. This form of the disease is characterized by the deposition of amyloid proteins in a single organ or tissue, often in the area where the injury has occurred.
Following a traumatic event, the body initiates an inflammatory response to promote healing. However, this response can lead to an overproduction of certain proteins, which may misfold and aggregate into amyloid fibrils if the inflammatory response is prolonged or intense. These fibrils can deposit in the area of injury, leading to localized amyloidosis.
The symptoms of localized amyloidosis depend on the site of the amyloid deposits. If they occur in the skin following a cut or burn, for example, it might result in changes in skin color or texture. In the case of trauma to internal organs, the symptoms will vary based on the organ affected.
This relationship between trauma and localized amyloidosis underlines the importance of appropriate wound care and management of injuries. Adequate treatment and control of the inflammatory response can potentially minimize the risk of localized amyloidosis following a physical injury.(9)
