Diagnosis of amyloidosis by histological examination of subcutaneous fat sampled at the time of pacemaker implantation

Heart. 2002 Jun;87(6):e7. doi: 10.1136/heart.87.6.e7.

Abstract

Atrioventricular conduction disease may occur in a range of conditions. If echocardiography suggests the presence of an infiltrative cardiomyopathy the diagnosis of amyloidosis may be confirmed by subcutaneous fat sampling from the site of pacemaker implantation. This technique requires no additional invasive procedure and confers no extra risk for the patient. Confirmation of amyloidosis provides important prognostic information and may allow specific treatment.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adipose Tissue
  • Aged
  • Amyloidosis / pathology*
  • Dilatation, Pathologic / diagnostic imaging
  • Echocardiography
  • Heart Atria / pathology
  • Heart Diseases / pathology*
  • Heart Ventricles / pathology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pacemaker, Artificial