| What is Angioedema?
What is Angioedema?
Angioedema affects the deeper layers of the skin. It is a type of swelling that has the potential to become severe. It looks like hives, but much larger. This condition may occur as the result of an allergy, certain medications or an infection. There is also a hereditary form of this condition that occurs as the result of inheriting a genetic mutation. Certain medical conditions, such as leukemia or lupus, might also have angioedema as a symptom.
In addition to redness and swelling, the lesions may appear thick, large and firm. The affected area can also be warm or cause pain. This condition most often affects the area around your cheeks, eyes or lips.
What is Angioedema
Angioedema affects the deeper layers of the skin. It is a type of swelling that has the potential to become severe. It looks like hives, but much larger. This condition may occur as the result of an allergy, certain medications or an infection. There is also a hereditary form of this condition that occurs as the result of inheriting a genetic mutation. Certain medical conditions, such as leukemia or lupus, might also have angioedema as a symptom.
In addition to redness and swelling, the lesions may appear thick, large and firm. The affected area can also be warm or cause pain. This condition most often affects the area around your cheeks, eyes or lips.
The Diagnosis
A physical examination is performed to look at the swelling. To determine if the throat is affected, the doctor may listen to your breathing. It is important that you let your doctor know about any recent exposure to known allergens.
If your doctor suspects acquired or hereditary angioedema, they may order some blood tests. These may include C1 esterase inhibitor testing and checking C2, C4 and other complement component levels. These tests can provide information about the level of certain blood proteins.
If an unknown allergen is suspected to be causing this condition, your doctor might recommend allergy skin testing. This can help your doctor to determine if you have any allergies that you may not know about.
The Treatment
Moderate to severe symptoms should be treated to alleviate your discomfort. If you are having an acute allergic reaction, epinephrine might be necessary. Antihistamines will be required as well. Corticosteroids may also be recommended in this instance. Solu-Medrol and prednisone are common examples. An acute allergic reaction can be life-threatening, so it is crucial to seek immediate treatment.
If the cause of angioedema is unknown, or when an allergen is the cause, your doctor might recommend an antihistamine to help reduce your symptoms. Examples include diphenhydramine, cetirizine and loratadine and fexofenadine.
If angioedema is acquired or hereditary, there are a few treatment options that might be explored. These may include:
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Fresh frozen plasma for cases related to ACE inhibitor use
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Icatibant for hereditary angioedema
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Purified human C1 esterase inhibitor for hereditary angioedema
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Ecallantide for hereditary angioedema
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BCX7353 – a novel oral drug is now FDA approved