Serum Amyloid A
Serum Amyloid A (SAA) is a protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation. It plays a role in the body's immune response and is part of the acute phase reactants, which increase during infections or tissue injury. Elevated levels of SAA can indicate various conditions, including infections, autoimmune diseases, and chronic inflammatory disorders.
In addition to its role in inflammation, SAA can aggregate and form amyloid deposits in tissues, leading to a condition known as amyloidosis. This can affect organ function and is associated with diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and chronic kidney disease. Monitoring SAA levels can help in diagnosing and managing these conditions.