immune disorders
Hereditary and Acquired Angioedema
Introduction
Hereditary angioedema (a genetic disorder) and acquired angioedema (acquired C1 inhibitor deficiency) are caused by a deficiency or malfunction of C1 inhibitor, which is part of the immune system. Both disorders result in repeated episodes of swelling under the skin. Angioedema is swelling of areas of tissue under the skin that sometimes affects the face, throat, and airways. Most angioedema is caused by an Overview of Allergic Reactions but sometimes it is caused by a hereditary disorder or another disorder such as cancer. Unlike angioedema caused by an allergic reaction, hereditary angioedema and acquired angioedema do not cause hives or itching. Blood tests help doctors diagnose the disorder. Certain drugs can help relieve symptoms, but if angioedema makes swallowing or breathing difficult, prompt emergency treatment is needed. (See also Overview of Allergic Reactions .) is a genetic disorder that causes a deficiency or malfunction of C1 inhibitor. C1 inhibitor is one of the proteins in the Complement System , which is part of the immune system. Symptoms usually start during childhood or adolescence. a rare disorder, differs from hereditary angioedema. It develops when certain cancers, such as Overview of Lymphoma , or autoimmune disorders, such as In both hereditary and acquired angioedema, swelling (angioedema) may be triggered by A minor injury, as may occur during a dental procedure A viral infection Certain foods Pregnancy Drugs that contain or are related toestrogen(such astamoxifen) Certain medications for high blood pressure such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors andangiotensin IIreceptor blockers (ARBs) Exposure to cold Although certain foods and drugs may trigger the angioedema, it is not an allergic reaction to those substances. Stress, such as that felt before having a dental or surgical procedure, can make angioedema worse. 