Angioedema

Angioedema is defined as edema of the skin or mucosa, including the respiratory and the gastrointestinal mucosa, which is self-limiting, and in most cases is completely resolved in less than 72 hours. It occurs due to increased permeability of the mucosal and submucosal capillaries and postcapillary venules, with resulting plasma extravasation. There are different types of angioedema: histaminergic (which may be mediated by immunoglobulin E), hereditary, from acquired C1 inhibitor deficiency, from angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, bradykinin-mediated, and non-histaminergic idiopathic angioedema. Treatment depends on the cause of angioedema, age, and the frequency and severity of manifestations. The main measures are avoiding external triggers or causes, giving antihistamines, steroids, or adrenaline for histaminergic angioedema; replacing the deficient protein or blocking the action of bradykinin in C1 inhibitor deficiency and angioedema from angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor