Diagnosis of amyloidosis by histological examination of subcutaneous fat sampled at the time of pacemaker implantation.

Atrioventricular conduction disease may occur in a range of conditions. If echocardiography suggests the presence of an infiltrative cardiomyopathy the diagnosis of amyloidosis may be confirmed by subcutaneous fat sampling from the site of pacemaker implantation. This technique requires no additional invasive procedure and confers no extra risk for the patient. Confirmation of amyloidosis provides important prognostic information and may allow specific treatment.