Angioedema
What is Angioedema?
Causes of Angioedema
Causes of Angioedema
Angioedema is swelling that occurs beneath the skin or mucous membranes, most often around the eyes, lips, tongue, hands, feet, or throat. Diagnosis is based on a patient’s history, physical exam, and, in some cases, blood tests to rule out hereditary angioedema (HAE), which is caused by a genetic deficiency or dysfunction of C1 esterase inhibitor.
Causes of Angioedema
Causes of Angioedema
Causes of Angioedema
Common causes of acquired angioedema include allergic reactions to foods, insect stings, and medications—particularly angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors), which are a frequent culprit. Unlike hives, angioedema involves deeper tissue swelling, and in severe cases, swelling of the airway can become life-threatening, requiring emergency treatment.
Angioedema Treatment
Causes of Angioedema
Angioedema Treatment
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. For allergic or medication-related angioedema, antihistamines, corticosteroids, and epinephrine may be used to control symptoms, and discontinuing the offending drug is essential. In cases of HAE, standard allergy treatments are often ineffective, so specialized therapies such as C1 inhibitor rep
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. For allergic or medication-related angioedema, antihistamines, corticosteroids, and epinephrine may be used to control symptoms, and discontinuing the offending drug is essential. In cases of HAE, standard allergy treatments are often ineffective, so specialized therapies such as C1 inhibitor replacement, bradykinin receptor antagonists, or kallikrein inhibitors are used.
Regardless of the cause, patients with recurrent or unexplained angioedema should be evaluated by an allergist or immunologist to confirm the diagnosis and develop an individualized management plan.