SHM's Clinical Quick Talks-Angioedema

Pdf Summary

Angioedema is a type of non-pitting edema that affects deep layers of the skin or mucosa, with or without itching. It can be caused by histamine, leukotrienes, or bradykinin. Histamine-mediated angioedema is typically linked to allergens or certain medications, while bradykinin-mediated angioedema may be due to genetic defects or medications like ACE inhibitors. Leukotriene-mediated angioedema can be triggered by NSAIDs. Distinguishing between these types is crucial for proper treatment. Symptoms and onset times vary depending on the underlying cause. Diagnosis involves testing C4 and tryptase levels. Treatment varies based on the etiology, with epinephrine, antihistamines, and corticosteroids commonly used for histamine and leukotriene-mediated cases. Bradykinin-mediated angioedema may require specific treatments like C1 inhibitor concentrate for hereditary angioedema. It is important to prioritize airway protection in all cases of angioedema, as it can be life-threatening. Understanding the different causes and appropriate interventions is key to managing angioedema effectively.

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Michael Giunta, Nicole Terrigno

Keywords

Angioedema

Non-pitting edema

Histamine

Leukotrienes

Bradykinin

Allergens

ACE inhibitors

NSAIDs

C4 levels

Tryptase levels