Light chain deposition disease
Light chain deposition disease (pronunciation: /laɪt tʃeɪn dɪˈpɒzɪʃən dɪˈziːz/) is a rare medical condition that primarily affects the kidneys. It is characterized by the deposition of monoclonal light chains, which are fragments of antibodies, in various tissues of the body.
Etymology
The term "light chain" refers to the smaller of the two types of polypeptide chains that make up an antibody. "Deposition" refers to the process by which these light chains accumulate in tissues. The term "disease" is used to denote a particular abnormal condition that negatively affects the structure or function of all or part of an organism.
Symptoms
The symptoms of light chain deposition disease can vary widely, depending on which organs are affected. However, the most common symptoms are related to kidney damage and may include proteinuria, hematuria, and nephrotic syndrome. Other possible symptoms include hepatomegaly, cardiomyopathy, and neuropathy.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of light chain deposition disease typically involves a combination of blood tests, urine tests, and biopsy of affected tissue. The presence of abnormal amounts of light chains in the blood or urine, along with characteristic changes in tissue seen on biopsy, can confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment for light chain deposition disease is aimed at reducing the production of abnormal light chains. This may involve chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation, or other treatments for the underlying plasma cell dyscrasia that is causing the overproduction of light chains.
Prognosis
The prognosis for light chain deposition disease varies depending on the extent of organ involvement and the patient's response to treatment. However, early detection and treatment can improve the prognosis.
See also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Light chain deposition disease
- Wikipedia's article - Light chain deposition disease
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