what is attr cm

ATTR-CM stands for transthyretin amyloid cardiomyopathy, which is a buildup of faulty proteins (fibrils) on the heart or nerves. It is an underdiagnosed and potentially fatal disease of the heart muscle. ATTR-CM typically presents with clinical signs and symptoms of progressive congestive heart failure, such as shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing, swelling in the feet, ankles, and legs, bloating in the abdomen, confusion or trouble thinking, increased heart rate, palpitations or abnormal heart rhythms. It is more common in localized parts of Portugal, Sweden, and Japan, and there are a number of variants in different parts of the world. Some variants are more common in people of Irish ancestry while others are common among people of African descent. ATTR-CM can be treated with medications that focus on easing the heart failure symptoms and slowing or stopping the formation and depositing of fibrils. In cases of advanced heart failure, heart transplantation may be an option.