Summary about Disease
Quincke's edema, also known as angioedema, is a condition characterized by swelling in the deep layers of the skin, often affecting the face, lips, tongue, throat, genitals, hands, or feet. The swelling is usually caused by the release of histamine or bradykinin, leading to increased permeability of blood vessels. Angioedema can be life-threatening if it affects the airway, causing difficulty breathing. It can be allergic, non-allergic or hereditary.
Symptoms
Sudden swelling, typically in the face, lips, tongue, throat, hands, feet, or genitals.
Swelling can be painful or itchy.
Difficulty breathing or swallowing (if the throat is affected).
Stomach cramps (in some cases).
Hoarseness or changes in voice.
Skin discoloration, sometimes with a reddish hue.
Causes
Allergic Reactions: Foods (nuts, shellfish, milk, eggs), insect bites or stings, medications (penicillin, NSAIDs).
Medications: ACE inhibitors (for high blood pressure), NSAIDs, aspirin.
Hereditary Angioedema (HAE): Genetic deficiency or dysfunction of C1-inhibitor.
Acquired Angioedema (AAE): Associated with certain conditions like lymphoma or autoimmune diseases.
Idiopathic Angioedema: Cause is unknown.
Physical Stimuli: Pressure, cold, vibration, or exercise.
Is Communicable
No, Quincke's edema (angioedema) is not communicable. It is not an infectious disease and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Avoid known triggers: Identify and avoid allergens or medications that cause reactions.
Carry an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen): If at risk for severe allergic reactions.
Medical alert bracelet: To inform medical personnel about the condition in case of emergency.
Emergency plan: Have a plan in place for managing angioedema attacks, including knowing when to seek medical help.
Inform healthcare providers: Let all doctors and dentists know about the angioedema history.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of an angioedema episode varies:
Allergic/Drug-induced: Can resolve within 24-72 hours after trigger removal and with treatment.
Hereditary Angioedema (HAE): Attacks can last from 24 hours to several days without treatment.
Idiopathic Angioedema: Duration can vary.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical Examination: Assessment of swelling and symptoms.
Medical History: Review of medications, allergies, and family history.
Allergy Testing: Skin prick tests or blood tests to identify allergens.
Blood Tests: C1-inhibitor level and function tests (for hereditary or acquired angioedema).
C4 Level: Often low in hereditary angioedema.
Bradykinin Level: May be elevated during attacks.
Timeline of Symptoms
Onset: Symptoms typically develop rapidly, often within minutes to hours of exposure to a trigger.
Progression: Swelling increases, potentially affecting breathing and swallowing.
Peak: Swelling usually reaches its maximum within 12-24 hours.
Resolution: Swelling gradually subsides over 24-72 hours (or longer in some cases), especially with treatment.
Important Considerations
Airway Compromise: Angioedema affecting the throat can be life-threatening. Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing difficulty breathing or swallowing.
Recurrence: Angioedema can recur, especially if the trigger is not identified and avoided.
Hereditary Angioedema: Requires specialized management and treatment to prevent and treat attacks.
ACE Inhibitors: If ACE inhibitors are suspected as the cause, discontinue the medication and consult with a healthcare provider for an alternative.
Individual Variability: The severity and duration of angioedema attacks can vary significantly from person to person.