Familial transthyretin amyloidosis

There is no treatment available for familial transthyretin amyloidosis (FTA) that reverses damage caused by amyloid deposits, but there are treatments that may prevent or delay progression.^[1][2] Treatment depends on which tissues are  affected and how far the disease has progressed.^[2] 

Liver transplantation is the "gold standard" for treatment for FTA, because it replaces the main source of amyloid. It may slow or halt progression of peripheral neuropathy, but the disease often still progresses in the eyes and brain. Transplantation ideally should be done as early as possible before there are severe neurological problems.^[1] 

Several  medications have been developed that slow the build-up of amyloid along nerves and in other parts of the body. These include tafamidis, diflunsial, and more recently inotersen and patisiran. There are other drugs that are currently under investigation for this condition.^[2][3]

Additional treatments may include heart and/or kidney transplantation, replacement of the liquid part of the eye (vitrectomy) for eye involvement, and carpal tunnel surgery.^[2]

Diuretics, medications that remove excess water and salt from the body, are often used to manage congestive heart failure  associated with the disease. Other symptoms of FTA are treated as they arise.^[2]

The outlook and life expectancy for each person with familial transthyretin amyloidosis (FTA) varies and depends on the TTR gene mutation present, organ(s) involved, and how early a person is diagnosed and treated. Some people whose symptoms begin at a younger age may live for only a few years after diagnosis, while older patients with slowly progressive disease can live for many years.^[1][2]  On average, people with FTA typically live for 7-12 years after they are first diagnosed.^[2] 
 
The long-term outlook after liver transplant is also influenced by many factors, including the type of amyloid present, nutritional status, age, and how much the brain and heart are involved.^[4] Newer medications are now available that help slow the build-up of amyloid and delay symptoms and it is not yet clear how these medications will affect the long-term outlook for people with FTA. People with questions about their personal outlook should speak with their healthcare providers.