Angioedema
Pronunciation: an-jee-oh-EE-dee-mah
Rapid, self-limiting swelling of the deep dermis, subcutaneous, or submucosal tissues of the orofacial region, which may be allergic, hereditary, or drug-induced in aetiology.
Full Definition
Orofacial angioedema is characterised by sudden-onset, asymmetric swelling of the lips, tongue, floor of mouth, or periorbital tissues resulting from increased vascular permeability in deep submucosal layers. Allergic angioedema is mediated by IgE-dependent mast cell degranulation, while hereditary angioedema (HAE) results from C1 esterase inhibitor deficiency and is distinct in its management pathway. ACE inhibitor-induced angioedema is an important drug-related cause seen in oral medicine practice. The term is written as one word ('angioedema') in contemporary British and American style; the older hyphenated form 'angio-oedema' or 'angioneurotic oedema' may be encountered in legacy documents and should be updated. Editors must note that angioedema without urticaria is atypical and warrants specific mention.
Usage
Usage note: Write as one word: 'angioedema'. The older forms 'angio-oedema' and 'angioneurotic oedema' are outdated; flag for updating. Distinguish hereditary angioedema (HAE) from allergic and drug-induced forms as management differs significantly.
In Context
- "ACE inhibitor–induced angioedema of the tongue was suspected after the patient presented with acute onset swelling following antihypertensive therapy." — Emergency department oral medicine consultation
- "Hereditary angioedema must be excluded in patients with recurrent orofacial swelling unresponsive to antihistamines." — Oral medicine referral letter