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OVERVIEW
Hereditary angioedema is condition characterized by the acute development edema throughout various parts of the body.
WHAT CAUSES IT?
A C1 inhibitor deficiency/dysfunction/destruction is responsible for many forms of hereditary angioedema. Decreased C1 inhibitor activity leads to elevated levels of the edema producing factors C2b and bradykinin.
WHAT MAKES US SUSPECT IT?
Initial Presentation:
- Noninflammatory edema of the face/limbs/genitals
- Laryngeal edema: this can interrupt normal breathing
- Abdominal pain: this is caused by intestinal edema
History Of Present Illness:
Age of onset: typically this condition will present in early to late childhood.
Onset of symptoms: symptoms will occur acutely. Episodes of edema usually follow infection, dental procedures, or trauma
CLINICAL WORKUP
ARCHIVE OF STANDARDIZED EXAM QUESTIONS
This archive compiles standardized exam questions that relate to this topic.
Page Updated: 11.25.2016