Medically reviewed and verified by Kate Burke, MD, MHA
PatientsLikeMe has covered how the condition amyloidosis affects the body and various organs. This disease causes proteins to misfold, and as they build up across the body they disrupt its normal function. These protein deposits can land anywhere, although they are more commonly found in places like the heart or kidney. On occasion, amyloidosis can affect the eyes, the areas around the eyes, the eyelids, and even the inside of the eye. This can result in symptoms ranging from slight discomfort to serious vision problems.
How Does Amyloidosis Affect the Eyes?
Known as ocular amyloidosis, this condition is when amyloid proteins build up in the eyes. The effects of can be localized (just around the eyes) or systemic (affecting the whole body and other organs). In either case, this can impact nearly any part of the eye. Here are the parts we are going to focus on:
- Eyelids
- Conjunctiva
- Cornea
- Iris or Lens
- Retina
Amyloidosis in the Eyelids
In systemic amyloidosis, proteins build up in the outer structures of the eye. These include the eyelid skin and the bones around the eye. If this happens, symptoms can include:
- Lumps or bumps under the skin
- Swelling and drooping of the eyelids
- Double vision
- Irritated and dry eyes
- Purple or blue skin around the eyes, especially when touched or rubbed
Amyloidosis in the Conjunctiva
The conjunctiva is the mucous membrane that lines the insides of the eyelids and covers the white part of the eye. When amyloid proteins deposit in this membrane, it can appear as a small, yellow, waxy mass. This most commonly affects middle-aged adults. Symptoms include:
- Lesions or papules
- Drooping of the eyelid
- Subconjunctival hemorrhage
- Damage to lacrimal glands
Amyloidosis in the Cornea
The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped outer layer of the eye. This tissue covers the pupil and the iris. It serves as a protective layer, allowing light to enter the eye. If amyloidosis affects the cornea, it can lead to a number of symptoms.
- Gelatinous Drop-Like Corneal Dystrophy: This is when amyloid proteins build up on the cornea, making it hard to see. As the disease progresses, you will experience irritation, tearing, and light sensitivity.
- Stromal Corneal Dystrophy: Here, amyloid proteins build up and form patterns inside the cornea. This causes small flakes to appear in your vision and haziness.
Amyloidosis in the Iris or Lens
When amyloidosis affects the iris or lens, it can lead to a few conditions. The most common and serious is one of a few types of glaucoma. Glaucoma is a group of diseases that affect the optic nerve in the eye and cause vision loss and blindness. The two types of glaucoma optic amyloidosis can cause are:
- Rubeotic glaucoma
- Particulate glaucoma
Scalloped pupils are another possible symptom. This is where the pupil's border appears wavy due to amyloid deposits.
Amyloidosis in the Retina or Vitreous
The vitreous is the gel inside the eyeball. Amyloid deposits here can create opaque areas that affect vision. The retina, at the back of the eye, can also be affected, leading to discolorations and shape distortions. Common symptoms include:
- Cobwebs, sheets, or pearls in your vision
- Discoloration of the retina
- Distortion of the shape of the retina
Managing Ocular Amyloidosis
Early diagnosis is the first step in effectively treating ocular amyloidosis. If you have amyloidosis, work with your healthcare team or ophthalmologist as soon as you notice any changes in your eyes or vision. If you are having issues with your vision, a doctor may recommend lubricating eye drops or bandage contact lenses. Eye drops help with irritation, while contact lenses can help heal or protect the cornea.
Treating the overall amyloidosis can also help manage eye symptoms. The most common treatment involves chemotherapy to stop abnormal cell growth. Targeted treatments can halt the production of specific amyloid proteins. Transplantation, of either organs or stem cells, may be a final step depending on how far the disease has spread.
Amyloidosis is a widespread disease that can significantly impact the eyes. If it does, it often leads to various symptoms and potential vision problems. Always work with your healthcare provider if you notice any changes in your eyes or vision.
PatientsLikeMe is here to help. You can track your health, monitor the efficacy of treatment, and talk to people experiencing the same thing as you. Creating an account is free! Join today.