Publications by authors named "R L Comenzo"
Background: Early diagnosis of systemic light-chain amyloidosis (AL) is needed because 25% of patients die within months of diagnosis. In patients with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) or smoldering multiple myeloma (SMM) of the λ isotype, we explored the use of 2 screening variables: a free light chain difference of 23mg/L between λ and k and presence of IGLV genes that occur more frequently in AL.
Methods: Patients contacted us and we sent HIPAA release and consent forms for discussion by phone.
Background: A 63-year-old Black woman presented with progressive exertional dyspnea and chronic lower back pain. The course and findings in her case are instructive.
Case Report: Family history was notable for cardiac deaths.
Article Synopsis
- - The study investigates how amyloid deposition affects kidney function in patients with amyloid light-chain (AL) amyloidosis, using data from renal biopsies in the RAIN trial to find relevant molecular signatures.
- - Researchers performed detailed transcriptional profiling and created a histologic scoring tool, identifying two distinct patient groups based on gene expression patterns and noted differences in scarring and inflammatory pathways.
- - The findings suggest that further research with larger sample sizes and advanced techniques could pinpoint specific kidney cell responses to amyloid deposits, paving the way for new treatments.
Article Synopsis
- - Immunoglobin light chain (AL) amyloidosis is a rare disease mainly affecting the heart and kidneys through amyloid fibril buildup, making organ-specific evaluations crucial for understanding the disease's impact and guiding treatment.
- - To promote new treatment developments, the Amyloidosis Forum convened to create guidelines for clinical trials, focusing on identifying effective assessment measures particularly from the insights of the Renal Working Group.
- - Key recommendations include using estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and proteinuria to determine trial eligibility and track patient responses, while highlighting the importance of timely and accurate evaluation of treatment effects.
Article Synopsis
- Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) significantly reduced the concentration of anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike antibodies (SAb) in patients, which are crucial for immunity against SARS-CoV-2.
- A comparison of antibody levels before and after TPE treatments showed a drop in SAb levels from 424.6 AU/mL to 17.0 AU/mL, along with a general decrease in immunoglobulin levels.
- Despite the reduction in SAb levels, there was no increase in new COVID-19 infections among patients who underwent TPE compared to those receiving other treatments in the study period.