Primary, systemic amyloidosis and the dermatologist: where classic skin lesions may provide the clue for early diagnosis.

Primary amyloidosis may present with skin lesions as a primary or sole expression of underlying plasma-cell dyscrasia. Classic skin lesions of primary, systemic amyloidosis are listed, and features suggestive of the diagnosis are discussed. Where this condition is considered in the dermatologist's differential, the investigations described may lead to an early diagnosis. When therapy can be initiated before the onset of organ failure, survival may be prolonged.