ALECT2 Amyloidosis
One of the most recent additions to the class of amyloid proteins is ALECT2, derived from a protein made by white blood cells (leukocytes). As part of ongoing research, it has yet to be determined whether ALECT2 is the result of genetic mutations; however, the effect of the disease closely
resembles that of AL, often affecting the kidneys. Because amyloid deposits can result from normal (wild-type) proteins,as with senile systemic amyloidosis, this form of the disease
may be mis- or underdiagnosed. One study, in fact, suggested that ALECT2 was the most common, undiagnosed type of amyloid, especially among patients of Mexican heritage. In an analysis of amyloid-containing kidney specimens over the last 8 years, ALECT2 was the third most common
type (2.5%), as compared to AL (86%), AA (7%) and ATTR(1.4%).