MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Amyloidosis on the face

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Amyloidosis on the face

Amyloidosis refers to deposits of a protein (called amyloid) in the tissues. This condition can affect multiple organs. The deposition of amyloid may be a by-product of normal aging. In this picture, we see how amyloidosis can cause a patchy, bruised appearance to the skin. Bruises of the skin around the eyes are referred to as the characteristic "pinched purpura".

Update Date: 4/27/2006

Updated by: Michael Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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