Iron-deficiency anemia complicating AL amyloidosis with recurrent small bowel pseudo-obstruction and hindgut sparing.

AL amyloidosis complicating multiple myeloma is rare but well recognized. Endoscopic appearances of amyloid in the gastrointestinal tract can, however, be highly variable. Macroscopic appearances of the duodenum can range from scalloping (often seen in celiac disease) to that of duodenitis; erosive disease, frank ulceration and even protruberant masses. The importance of small bowel biopsies at the time of duodenal intubation and in gastroscopic examinations for iron deficiency anemia, must therefore be stressed. Copyright 2002 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd