Angioedema
Pronunciation: an-jee-oh-eh-DEE-mah
Deep dermal and subcutaneous swelling caused by vascular leakage, commonly affecting the face, lips, and airway. Editors must distinguish it from superficial urticaria in clinical reports.
Full Definition
Angioedema is a rapid-onset swelling of the deep dermis, subcutaneous tissue, and mucous membranes resulting from increased vascular permeability. It most frequently involves the periorbital region, lips, tongue, and larynx, and may be allergic, hereditary, or drug-induced in origin. Unlike urticaria, which is confined to the superficial dermis, angioedema is typically non-pitting and does not itch but may cause a burning sensation. In clinical documentation, hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a specific subtype caused by C1-inhibitor deficiency and must be correctly differentiated from allergic angioedema. Editors should ensure 'angioedema' is not hyphenated and is spelled as a single word.
Usage
Usage note: Write as a single unhyphenated word. 'Oedema' spelling preferred in British English documents; 'edema' in American English.
In Context
- "The patient presented with recurrent angioedema of the lips and periorbital tissue following ibuprofen use." — Dermatology clinic letter
- "Hereditary angioedema was excluded by normal C1-inhibitor levels." — Allergy and immunology report