What angioedema is

Angioedema affects the deeper layers of submucosal tissue, subcutaneous tissue and dermis. Although Quincke oedema is considered a form of urticaria, it is not accompanied by pruritus. Angioedema usually involves the face, but there are situations where it penetrates into the urinary, gastrointestinal or respiratory systems. Respiratory oedema in particular is extremely dangerous - when the oedema involves the larynx, respiratory distress and life-threatening conditions can occur.

What causes Quincke oedema

Angioedema is an immune system response to an allergen. In other words, Quincke's oedema is an allergic reaction to certain drugs (e.g. penicillin), foods (nut, eggs), insect venom, latex, pollen, animal dander. Quincke's oedema can also occur as a result of a non-allergic reaction caused by the use of a shading agent, contrast, non-steroidal inflammatory reactions. There are also literature data supporting the occurrence of congenital Quincke oedema, which arises from mutations in the gene responsible for C1 inhibitor production. Quincke oedema can also occur as an acquired form, associated with the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors.

What are the symptoms of Quincke oedema?

Symptoms that should worry us and may suggest the onset of Quincke oedema include a feeling of pressure, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, swelling of the lips, swelling of the eyelids, pallor, abnormal skin elasticity.

Treatment options

As with the treatment of allergies - the first step is to identify the factor that causes the swelling and to use anti-allergic medication. It is extremely important to act quickly when respiratory oedema occurs - sometimes, in addition to the administration of antihistamines, it may be necessary to perform a tracheotomy. When oedema affects people who have a mutation in the gene coding for the C1 inhibitor, treatment is based on plasma transfusions to equalise the level of the inhibitor in the blood.