Swelling of deep parts under the skin and mucous membranes. A lot of times, it is associated with a hives clinical picture.
It can be acquired due to a contact allergy or congenital due to an enzyme deficiency.
It manifests with a swelling of sudden appearance in eyes, mouth or tongue. If it affects the respiratory mucosa, it can block the air pathway with stridor when breathing.
Mild cases are usually treated with antihistamines and corticosteroids. In severe cases with arterial hypotension and/or respiratory failure, the treatment of choice will be epinephrine. Intubation and artificial ventilation may be necessary if the upper airway is completely obstructed.
If symptoms of angioedema are present, it is advisable to consult a doctor without delay to reach a diagnosis and start treatment immediately.
- Bruce Zuraw, MD. Clifton O Bingham, III, MD. An overview of angioedema: Pathogenesis and causes. UpToDate. Sep 26, 2016.
- Bruce Zuraw, MD. Clifton O Bingham, III, MD. An overview of angioedema: Clinical features, diagnosis, and management. UpToDate. Jul 21, 2015.
- Ertoy Karagol HI, Yilmaz O, Bakirtas A, et al. Angioedema without urticaria in childhood. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2013; 24:685.
- Ricketti AJ, Cleri DJ, Ramos-Bonner LS, Vernaleo JR. Hereditary angioedema presenting in late middle age after angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor treatment. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2007; 98:397.
- Gallart T. Enfermedades alérgicas mediadas por anticuerpos IgE (hipersensibilidad inmediata o alergia atópica). Farreras Rozman. Medicina Interna. Volumen 2. 12º edición: 2709.
