Amyloid A protein (SAA)

Amyloid A protein

Clinical significance

Amyloid A protein assay is used in the diagnosis of amyloidosis, also known as starchiasis. This disorder involves the deposition of a specific protein - amyloid - in tissues and organs. It is formed by the breakdown of serum amyloid A, whichóre an acute-phase protein and is involved in the inflammatory response and also plays an important role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, atherosclerosis and cancerów. Amyloidosis can occur initially without an apparent cause, or inórally in the course of rheumatic diseases, connective tissue diseases or as a complication of infectious and inflammatory diseases. The onset of amyloidosis may be asymptomatic; early symptomsóinclude enlargement of the liver or spleen, swelling of the eyes, symptoms associated with nerve damageów, palpitations, and bloody watering especially aroundóthe eyes. In addition, there may be deteriorated kidney function and increased excretion of protein in the urine (proteinuria).