COMMITMENT IN ACTION

Angioedema (AE) is localized, nonpruritic swelling resulting from a transient increase in the permeability of postcapillary venules of subcutaneous and submucosal tissue. The swelling can occur at any location and may last between 2 and 5 days. Common locations of swelling include the face, extremities, and gastrointestinal tract, including the bowel wall. Laryngeal edema, while less common, is the most serious presentation because of the high rate of associated mortality. The various syndromes of AE include hereditary, acquired, idiopathic, and drug-induced. Triggers of, and treatments for, the various syndromes may differ; therefore, it is important to understand which type of AE a patient presents with.