Although so little is known of the immediate cause of amyloid degeneration, its distribution in the various organs of the body is fully ascertained, as well as certain of the conditions which are likely to be followed by its presence. It is known to occur as a localized process in cartilage, in the conjunctiva, in certain tumors, cardiac thrombi, scars, retained inflammatory products, and renal casts. The causes of this localized appearance are wholly obscure, and little or no general inconvenience results. Its presence, however, on a large scale and in various parts of {86} the body at the same time, is met with under such circumstances as indicate a distinct etiological relation. An appreciation of these circumstances is of importance, since their existence demands an investigation as to the probable presence of the degeneration. The organs thus affected are the spleen, liver, kidneys, and intestine. It is to their disturbance of function that the pathological importance of amyloid degeneration is to be especially attributed. Other organs which may sometimes be affected are the lymphatic glands, pancreas, suprarenal capsules, omentum, uterus, bladder, prostate gland, heart, and thyroid body. In the case of a general diffused infiltration these organs are variously degenerated, now some, and again others, showing a more extensive alteration, while few or many may be simultaneously diseased. The longer the process has continued, the greater the degree of the disturbance and the larger the number of the organs infiltrated. Although, in general, a period of months and years may be demanded for these extensive changes, very serious disturbances may arise within a short time, and Cohnheim[37] records several cases which suggest that widely diffused amyloid degeneration may occur within a few months--in one instance in less than four months. [Footnote 37: _Virchow's Archiv_, 1872, liv. 271.]