Primary amyloidosis is reported as occurring more often in older animals and man. This study concerned 52 white Pekin ducks from which hepatic biopsy specimens were obtained at various ages. It was found that hepatic amyloidosis occurred more frequently in older ducks, but it did occur in young white Pekins. The age at onset of hepatic amyloidosis varied. The rapidity of development also varied, as indicated by liver biopsies and by the weight of the liver.
Since primary amyloidosis in man may be genetically influenced, it is important to know when amyloid first appears in the tissues, and the rate of progression.