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Diagnose This (August 24, 2021)

Clarissa Cassol, MD renal pathologist at arkana laboratories
By Clarissa Cassol, MD

Aug 24, 2021

Amyloidosis, AA amyloid, IV drug, proteinuria

This is the biopsy of a 32yo IV drug user who has nephrotic range proteinuria and MSSA bacteremia secondary to a skin abscess. What is this stain and what is your diagnosis?

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The stain is an Amyloid AA immunohistochemistry and the diagnosis is AA amyloidosis involving glomeruli and arterioles. AA amyloid is usually seen in the setting of chronic inflammatory diseases and infections such as rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, inflammatory bowel disease, tuberculosis, chronic osteomyelitis, and familial Mediterranean fever.  It has also been described in drug users that inject drugs by a subcutaneous route (i.e., “skin popping”).

 

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Quick note: This post is to be used for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or health advice. Each person should consult their own doctor with respect to matters referenced. Arkana Laboratories assumes no liability for actions taken in reliance upon the information contained herein.