|
Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a debilitating, multisystemic inherited disease caused by low levels of functional plasma protein C1 inhibitor (C1-INH).
HAE is known to generate episodic painless, non-pruritic, non-pitting edema that usually involve the extremities but may affect any external body surfaces, commonly including the genitalia, the face, and the lips.
Acute attacks of intestinal edema can result in severe abdominal pain due to mucosal swelling. However, the most serious attacks involve the larynx. Laryngeal attacks can lead to complete obstruction of the airway and death from asphyxiation. (Frank 2004).
For more information about HAE see:
Symptoms of HAE
Etiology & Prevalence
Pathophysiology
Types of HAE
Glossary
Document Published:
12/21/2006 3:47 PM
Last Updated:
1/29/2007 9:59 AM
|