Hereditary Angioedema Attacks - ACEI Induced Angioedema

This article explains the basic details of hereditary angioedema attacks and ACEI induced angioedema (also called ACE inhibitor induced angioedema). For better understanding, the article is divided in two parts: the first one explains hereditary angioedema attacks whereas the second one entails ACEI induced angioedema. The major symptom of angioedema is the swelling caused which usually occurs on eyes and lips. This is why that sometimes it is also called facial angioedema.

Hereditary angioedema attacks are usually recurrent episodes of pain without any known or obvious cause. These attacks can be severely painful and disabling. These attacks typically cause severe abdominal pain and cramping in the abdomen. The symptoms are pretty much similar to these of acute abdomen hence can lead to an unnecessary keyhole or abdominal surgery.

The common and obvious sign of hereditary angioedema is swelling, that develops rapidly on the eyes, lips, tongue and sometimes throat. However, it is not limited to these areas, and can also be affect hands, feet, genitals etc. But in some cases the attacks of abdominal pain can be the sole symptom. Urticaria (hives) may also develop along with it. Severe swelling in the throat or tongue can cause blockage in the upper airway and even suffocation. The patient must avoid the triggering factors and proper diagnosis should be carried out before any treatment.

ACEI induced angioedema is bradykinin-mediated, just like in case of hereditary angioedema as well as acquired angioedema. It is outbreaks as an adverse effect of ACE inhibitor therapy. Thought it is very uncommon yet it can be life threatening and must be avoided. It symptoms can appear within a few weeks of months of the therapy however in most of the cases it takes years to appear. Black people are more prone to this disease as compared tow whites. If any symptom observed, an immediate withdrawal of ACE inhibitor is required which must be followed by long term alternate therapy with different drugs to keep hypertension and heart failure under control.