Hereditary angioedema
SAQ. A 22 years old female developed stridor and facial swelling just after a dental intervention due to toothache. She had no previous history of atopy. Her mother also had a repeated history of this type of illness that usually resolves within a day.
- Write down 3 differential diagnoses from this scenario
- Hereditary angioedema
- Allergic reaction to specific trigger
- Idiopathic angioedema
- ACE-inhibitor associated angioedema
- Write down 2 specific tests to reach the diagnosis
- C4 levels: Low
- C1 inhibitor levels
Investigation | Finding |
C1 inhibitor level and function |
|
C4, C2 |
|
Management
Acute attack |
|
Prevention/prophylaxis |
|
Patient education:
- Self-administer therapy
- Carry a MedicAlert or similar.
SAQ. A 17-year-old boy complains of severe abdominal pain & breathlessness. He had H/O appendicectomy 6 months back due to similar type of pain. On exams, facial swelling & rash over extremities.
- What’s your diagnosis? How will you treat him now? → Answer: Hereditary angioedema
- How can you prevent further attacks?