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PYP Imaging for Amyloidosis With Cardiomyopathy

A pyrophosphate (PYP) scan is a specialized imaging test used to diagnose cardiac amyloidosis, a condition where abnormal proteins accumulate in the heart. This noninvasive test helps doctors confirm the presence and severity of cardiac amyloidosis, guiding them toward an appropriate treatment plan.

At Baptist Medical Network, our healthcare team provides comprehensive support for patients at every stage of their heart care journey. Whether you're managing cardiac amyloidosis or another heart condition, we offer personalized, compassionate treatment plans tailored to your unique needs. From early diagnosis to advanced therapies, our experts are dedicated to improving heart health and enhancing quality of life for a wide range of cardiovascular conditions.

What Is a PYP Scan?

A PYP scan is a specialized imaging test used to diagnose cardiac amyloidosis, a rare disease in which abnormal proteins called amyloids build up in the heart. If left untreated, this build-up can lead to heart failure and other serious complications. PYP imaging helps doctors confirm the presence of cardiac amyloidosis and determine the type and severity of the disease, guiding them to create an appropriate treatment plan. The PYP imaging for amyloidosis is a noninvasive procedure, meaning it does not require any incisions.

PYP scan is a form of cardiac amyloidosis scan used primarily for diagnosing transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR-CM) in the heart. Other imaging techniques like echocardiography, cardiac MRI and endomyocardial biopsy are also important diagnostic tools for cardiac amyloidosis, though PYP scans have become particularly significant in noninvasively diagnosing ATTR amyloidosis. Early detection through a cardiac amyloidosis scan can make a significant difference in managing the disease and improving the patient’s quality of life.

What Causes Cardiac Amyloidosis?

Cardiac amyloidosis is caused by the buildup of abnormal proteins called amyloids in the heart tissue. These proteins are produced in the bone marrow and can accumulate in various organs, but when they deposit in the heart, they cause the walls of the heart to stiffen, leading to serious heart problems, including heart failure.
There are different types of amyloidosis. The cause of cardiac amyloidosis depends on the type:
  • Transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR-CM): This type is caused by a protein called transthyretin (TTR) that becomes misshapen and deposits in the heart. There are two forms:
    • Hereditary ATTR-CM: Caused by a genetic mutation passed down through families. It can affect the heart, nerves and other organs.
    • Wild-Type ATTR-CM: This form is not inherited and typically occurs in older adults, especially men. It primarily affects the heart.
  • Amyloid light chain (AL) amyloidosis: This type is caused by abnormal light chains produced by plasma cells in the bone marrow. These light chains misfold and deposit in the heart and other organs. AL amyloidosis is often associated with bone marrow disorders, such as multiple myeloma.

Each type of cardiac amyloidosis involves the accumulation of these amyloid proteins in the heart, leading to restrictive cardiomyopathy, where the heart becomes less able to pump blood effectively. Understanding the specific cause of cardiac amyloidosis is essential because treatment varies depending on the type.

How Long Does a PYP Scan Take?

A PYP imaging for cardiac amyloidosis typically takes about an hour and a half but may last up to 2 hours, depending on specific circumstances. This time may include the preparation, the imaging process and any necessary waiting periods between steps. The entire procedure is straightforward and may involve minimal discomfort. When you arrive for your scheduled PYP scan in a designated facility like Baptist Medical Network, staff will guide you through the process and ensure you’re comfortable and informed about each step.
The PYP scan works by injecting a small amount of a radioactive tracer, specifically technetium-99m pyrophosphate (Tc-99m PYP), into a vein in your arm. This tracer travels through your bloodstream and is absorbed by any amyloid deposits in your heart. After a short waiting period, special cameras capture detailed images of your heart, allowing doctors to see if amyloid is present and how much has accumulated.
After the images are taken, the procedure is complete. You may be asked to wait briefly while the images are reviewed to ensure they are clear and sufficient for diagnosis.

Throughout the process, the staff will be available to answer any questions and ensure that you are as comfortable as possible. 

How is ATTR-CM Treated?

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with ATTR-CM through a PYP scan, the next step is to focus on managing the disease and its symptoms. The goal of treatment is to slow down the progression of the condition, manage heart failure symptoms and improve quality of life. Here are possible cardiac amyloidosis treatment options:
  • Medications for heart failure: Drugs that help ease symptoms such as fluid buildup, swelling or irregular heartbeats may be prescribed. These medications help control heart failure-related issues, supporting better heart function.
  • Neuropathy treatment: For hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis, medications may be prescribed to address nerve damage that can cause pain in the hands and feet.
  • Heart and liver transplant: In severe cases of heart failure, a heart transplant may be considered. Since the transthyretin protein is produced by the liver, in some cases, both heart and liver transplants may be necessary to prevent further amyloid deposits.

Every patient’s treatment plan is tailored to their specific condition and overall health. If you or a loved one is diagnosed with ATTR-CM, it's important to work closely with a healthcare team that includes cardiologists and specialists experienced in treating amyloidosis. 

Your Heart Is in Good Hands

Baptist Medical Network is your heart and vascular care destination in San Antonio, TX. We are committed to helping you fully understand your health conditions and the mitral valve repair and replacement options. Our goal is to empower you to make informed decisions about your treatment, ensuring you receive the care that suits your specific needs.

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Please contact your interventional cardiologist to schedule an appointment and have lab imaging ordered. You can call 210-798-4311 to inquire.

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