Peer Reviewed
Feature Article Immunology and allergy
CPD
Complete 1.5 CPD hours

Hereditary and acquired angioedemas: rare but potentially life-threatening

Constance H Katelaris
Go To
CPD
Abstract
Angioedema without urticaria should prompt consideration of hereditary, or acquired, C1 inhibitor deficiency-associated and ACE inhibitor-induced angioedema. These rare forms require different management to urticaria-associated angioedema as they do not respond to antihistamines, corticosteroids and adrenaline.
Key Points
  • Angioedema most often occurs in association with urticaria and usually then responds to treatments used for the urticaria.
  • When angioedema occurs without urticaria, consider hereditary angioedema, acquired angioedema associated with C1 inhibitor deficiency and ACE inhibitor-induced angioedema.
  • Hereditary angioedema is rare but must be identified as it can be life-threatening. Treatments include C1 INH concentrates, icatibant and ecallantide. Danazol and tranexamic acid are used for prophylaxis.
  • Treatment of the underlying disease generally relieves symptoms in patients with the very rare acquired angioedema associated with C1 inhibitor deficiency.
  • ACE inhibitor-induced angioedema is an important cause of angioedema in older people, and may be life-threatening.
Get full access
Subscribe for full access to all articles
Buy this article

Single article purchases are temporarily unavailable due to site maintenance.

If you would like to purchase an article during this time, please email us at [email protected] with the article details and we'll assist you directly. We'll also let you know when online purchasing is available again.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Already a subscriber?