Angioedema is swelling that occurs under the skin or mucous membrane. There are various possible causes. Most of the time they are mast cell-mediated diseases such as allergies or urticaria. Histamine often plays a role here, and angioedema often occurs in combination with wheals or itching. If you have been diagnosed with mast cell-mediated angioedema, we recommend that you consult a dermatologist.
Bradykinin-mediated diseases are considerably less common. In this case there is an increase in bradykinin, a special hormone in the blood. This can be triggered by a number of factors:
- hereditary disorders (hereditary angioedema)
- certain underlying diseases such as cancer or autoimmune diseases (acquired angioedema with C1 inhibitor deficiency)
- certain drugs such as antihypertensive drugs (e.g. ACE inhibitors induced angioedema).
The swelling can affect almost all parts of the body, such as the face, tongue, larynx, extremities or internal organs. In addition to the disturbing visible swellings, those affected can also suffer from severe abdominal pain or even life-threatening shortness of breath caused by swelling in the throat or larynx. There are various drugs available for treatment which are used individually.
During our special consultation hours we treat patients with known or unclear, non-mast cell-mediated angioedema. This includes targeted diagnostics - if necessary with genetic testing. We identify possible causes and, together with you, determine an individualized therapy which we review regularly. In addition, we continuously integrate new treatment methods into our range of services.