How is LCDD diagnosed?
Diagnosis of light-chain deposition disease (LCDD) LCDD is often found when a person is evaluated for proteinuria or nephrotic syndrome and a renal biopsy is performed. The tiny piece of removed kidney tissue is examined under an electron microscope and light chains deposited in the kidney can be seen.
What causes LCDD?
The underlying cause of LCDD is unknown. It is often associated with multiple myeloma. LCDD may progress to multiple myeloma, or it may be present with multiple myeloma when it is first diagnosed.
How do I treat myeloma light chain?
Patients with active myeloma or light chain amyloidosis are often given a combination of 2 or 3 drugs. The drugs chosen depend on the patient’s health (including their kidney function) and whether a stem cell transplant is planned. Often, a combination containing bortezomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone is used.
What kills multiple myeloma?
Typical treatment for multiple myeloma includes chemotherapy, a common therapy to kill cancerous cells. Other multiple myeloma treatments include bisphosphonates which are drugs used to strengthen bones in arthritis patients.
How does light chain deposition disease ( LCDD ) work?
Summary Summary. Light chain deposition disease (LCDD) is a rare condition characterized by the deposition of specific proteins (monoclonal light chains) in the kidneys and other organs. Light chains are used to make antibodies that the body needs to fight infection.
How are LCS and LCDD related to kidney disease?
LCs are normally cleared by the kidneys, but in LCDD, these light chain deposits damage organs and cause disease. The kidneys are almost always affected and this often leads to kidney failure.
Which is the most common organ affected by LCDD?
The kidney is the organ most frequently affected. Proteinuria, loss of protein in the urine, is characteristic. More than 90% of people with LCDD develop kidney failure, often with rapid progression of disease. Light chains may be deposited in many other organs and may or may not result in any symptoms.
What are the signs and symptoms of LCDD?
Signs and symptoms of LCDD may include protein in the urine; decreased kidney function; and/or nephrotic syndrome. Rarely, a person with LCDD may have symptoms from cardiac (heart) or liver involvement.