Pathology of the urinary system

RENAL  AMYLOIDOSIS

 

 

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amyloidosis is a heterogenous group of diseases, often systemic, resulting from the deposition in 

tissues of amyloid, a fibrillar protein with unique biochemical properties associated with its β-

pleated sheet configuration;  

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amyloid is difficult to remove, and its deposition in tissues impairs organ function; 

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the kidney is the organ most commonly affected by amyloidosis, usually with involvement of the 

glomeruli. 

 

  

Primary Amyloidosis

 

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results from the deposition of amyloid AL; 

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amyloid AL is derived from immunoglobulin light chains produced by abnormal plasma cells 

(plasma cell dyscrasias, including neoplasms). 

 

  

Secondary (Reactive) Amyloidosis

 

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due to deposition of amyloid AA (from serum α-globulin) 

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result of chronic antigenic stimulation: inflammation, infection and neoplasia are commonly 

associated with a reactive amyloidosis; 

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most common form in domestic animals.