Double autologous bone marrow transplantation and orthotopic liver transplantation in a patient with primary light chain (AL) amyloidosis

Due to late diagnosis, vital organ failure is common in AL amyloidosis. This may delay or prevent crucial therapeutic approaches aimed at eradicating the plasma cell clone, such as high-dose chemotherapy and autologous stem cell transplantation. Solid organ transplantation to overcome organ failure is controversial due to both the shortage of organs and the systemic nature of the disease and the likely recurrence in the graft. We report on a patient who underwent liver transplantation while in hematologic remission after autologous stem cell transplantation. The issue of solid organ transplantation in AL amyloidosis and the role of the new drugs are briefly discussed. © 2011 Informa UK, Ltd.