Primary Amyloidosis of the Genitourinary Tract

Arch Pathol Lab Med. 2021 Jun 1;145(6):699-703. doi: 10.5858/arpa.2020-0102-RA.

Abstract

Context.—: Amyloidosis is caused by the deposition of misfolded proteins as insoluble eosinophilic material in the extracellular tissues of the body, leading to impairment of organ function. It can be systemic or localized. Localized genitourinary tract amyloidosis is rare and can be incidentally seen; however, in some cases, it can be the only presenting disease.

Objective.—: To review the clinical presentation and pathologic findings related to primary amyloidosis of the urogenital system and highlight some of the associated pathologic findings based on our personal experience.

Data sources.—: Published peer-reviewed literature and personal experience of the senior author.

Conclusions.—: Primary localized amyloidosis within the urogenital tract can present as a neoplastic process and may be clinically and radiologically considered as a mass. Awareness of primary amyloidosis by pathologists and clinicians is required for accurate diagnosis and proper patient management.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Amyloid / metabolism*
  • Amyloidogenic Proteins / metabolism
  • Amyloidosis / diagnosis
  • Amyloidosis / metabolism*
  • Clinical Laboratory Techniques / methods
  • Humans
  • Kidney / metabolism*
  • Kidney / pathology
  • Proteostasis Deficiencies / diagnosis
  • Proteostasis Deficiencies / metabolism
  • Ureter / metabolism*
  • Ureter / pathology
  • Urinary Bladder / metabolism*
  • Urinary Bladder / pathology
  • Urogenital System / metabolism*
  • Urogenital System / pathology

Substances

  • Amyloid
  • Amyloidogenic Proteins