Angioneurotic edema.

Abstract

Angioneurotic edema can involve the face and mucous membranes and can progress toward laryngeal obstruction and death. ACE inhibitors are the main etiology, followed by the hereditary forms and the acquired forms. Quantitative and qualitative measurements of C1 inhibitors are important to differentiate the common form of HAE from the variant form. Long-term therapy is based upon antifibrinolytics and androgen therapy. Fresh frozen plasma can be given for short-term therapy. Treatment of the acute attack is mainly supportive directed toward airway protection. Epinephrine, steroids, and antihistamine have not been proven to be efficacious.