Angioedema

angioedema /an·gio·ede·ma/ (-e-de´mah) a vascular reaction involving the deep dermis or subcutaneous or submucosal tissues, representing localized edema caused by dilatation and increased permeability of the capillaries, and characterized by the development of giant wheals.

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hereditary angioedema  an autosomal dominant disorder of C1 inhibitor (C1 INH), which causes uncontrolled activation of the classical complement pathway, manifested as recurrent episodes of edema of the skin and upper respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts with increased levels of several vasoactive mediators of anaphylaxis. It may be mediated by such factors as minor trauma, sudden changes in environmental temperature, and sudden emotional stress.

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an·gi·o·e·de·ma (nj---dm)

n.

See angioneurotic edema.

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Angioedema

An allergic skin disease characterized by patches of confined swelling involving the skin the layers beneath the skin, the mucous membranes, and sometimes the viscera—called also angioneurotic edema, giant urticaria, Quincke's disease, or Quincke's edema.

Mentioned in: Allergies, Antihypertensive Drugs

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angioedema (angioneurotic edema, Quincke's disease) (an´jēōdē´m),

n the spontaneous swelling of the lips, cheeks, eyelids, tongue, soft palate, pharynx, and glottis, frequently associated with allergy to food or drugs and lasting from several hours to several days. Involvement of the glottis results in obstruction of the airway.

Angioedema.

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angioedema

a condition characterized by the sudden and temporary appearance of large areas of painless swelling in the subcutaneous tissue or submucosa, with or without pruritus. Caused by immunological reactions, usually immediate type hypersensitivities. Sometimes referred to as angioneurotic edema.

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hereditary angioedema

in humans, the periodic occurrence of angioedema caused by a deficiency of the complement regulatory protein.