France launches national campaign for cardiac amyloidosis detection

Medical societies and patient associations in France have launched the ‘Chameleon Disease’ national campaign to improve the detection of transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis. This condition, which affects approximately 10,000 people in France, is often diagnosed two to four years after initial symptoms appear. Early detection can increase survival chances by 40%.

The disease is caused by the progressive accumulation of amyloid protein deposits in tendons, ligaments, joints, and the inner ear, which eventually reach and stiffen the heart. Because it often manifests as rheumatological, orthopedic, or ENT issues, it is frequently misidentified. Key warning signs include bilateral or recurrent carpal tunnel syndrome, spontaneous tendon ruptures, and spinal stenosis.

A national screening program is scheduled to launch on October 26 across nearly 50 hospital centers throughout the country.