1 learning resource available for this topic
Angioedema is a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by rapid swelling of deeper skin layers and mucous membranes, most commonly affecting the face, lips, tongue, and throat. It can be hereditary, allergic, or idiopathic in nature, with severe cases causing airway obstruction requiring immediate medical intervention.
Angioedema results from increased vascular permeability due to release of vasoactive mediators like histamine, bradykinin, or complement activation. In hereditary angioedema, C1 esterase inhibitor deficiency leads to uncontrolled bradykinin production, while allergic forms involve IgE-mediated mast cell degranulation and histamine release.
Diagnosis relies on recognizing asymmetric, non-pitting swelling particularly around the eyes, lips, and tongue, often without urticaria in hereditary forms. Immediate assessment focuses on airway patency and breathing adequacy, as laryngeal involvement can rapidly progress to complete obstruction requiring emergent intubation or surgical airway management.