Wild-type ATTR (wtATTR) primarily affects the heart, but it can also cause mild nerve-related symptoms. These tend to be less severe than those seen in hereditary ATTR, but they're still worth paying attention to.
Common peripheral neuropathy symptoms in wtATTR can include:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (pain, numbness, or Show Full Answer
Wild-type ATTR (wtATTR) primarily affects the heart, but it can also cause mild nerve-related symptoms. These tend to be less severe than those seen in hereditary ATTR, but they're still worth paying attention to.
Common peripheral neuropathy symptoms in wtATTR can include:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (pain, numbness, or tingling in the hands and wrists)
- Mild sensory symptoms such as tingling or burning sensations
- Weakness in the hands or arms Managing these symptoms typically involves a combination of disease-modifying treatments and supportive care. Here's an overview:
Disease-Modifying Therapies
- Medications like patisiran (Onpattro), vutrisiran (Amvuttra), and eplontersen (Wainua) work by reducing the liver's production of the TTR protein, helping to slow progression
Supportive Care
- Physical therapy to help with balance, strength, and mobility
- Working with a neurologist to monitor nerve involvement
- Regular monitoring of the heart and other organs, as wtATTR is a systemic condition
It's always best to work closely with a specialist — typically a neurologist and cardiologist together — to build a management plan that fits the specific situation.
August 21