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Contents
  • Mast Cell-Mediated Angioedema
  • Bradykinin-Mediated Angioedema
  • Unknown Mechanisms

What Causes Angioedema? Discover the Surprising Triggers!

What Causes Angioedema? Discover the Surprising Triggers!

Understanding Angioedema

Angioedema is a sudden swelling of the skin and tissues beneath it. Let's dive into what causes this mysterious condition.
Contents
  • Mast Cell-Mediated Angioedema
  • Bradykinin-Mediated Angioedema
  • Unknown Mechanisms

Mast Cell-Mediated Angioedema

Mast cells release substances like histamine, causing blood vessels to leak fluid into surrounding tissues. This type of angioedema often comes with hives and itching. Common triggers include allergens like foods and medications. Treatment usually involves antihistamines and, in severe cases, epinephrine.

Bradykinin-Mediated Angioedema

This type occurs when the body has too much bradykinin, leading to swelling without itching or hives. It's often triggered by medications like ACE inhibitors. Unlike mast cell-mediated angioedema, it doesn't respond to antihistamines, requiring specific treatments targeting bradykinin.
Angioedema is a sudden swelling of the skin and tissues beneath it, caused by the release of substances like histamine or an excess of bradykinin.

Unknown Mechanisms

Some angioedema cases remain a mystery in terms of causes. Idiopathic angioedema occurs without known triggers and can be challenging to manage. In children, infections are a common association, while adults may experience it without any clear reason.

FAQs

What is angioedema?

It's swelling of skin and tissues beneath, often sudden.

What triggers mast cell-mediated angioedema?

Allergens like foods and medications are common triggers.

How is bradykinin-mediated angioedema treated?

It requires treatment targeting bradykinin, not antihistamines.

Why does idiopathic angioedema occur?

The exact cause is unknown, making it hard to manage.

The Mystery Continues

Angioedema remains a complex condition with varied causes and treatments.
Curious about angioedema? Chat with Doctronic for more insights!
Additional References
  1. Lin RY, Cannon AG, Teitel AD. Pattern of hospitalizations for angioedema in New York. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2005; 95:159.
  2. Commins SP, Satinover SM, Hosen J, et al. Delayed anaphylaxis after red meat consumption. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2009; 123:426.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.