Etymed
angioedema
Definition
Swelling beneath the skin or mucous membranes caused by fluid accumulation in the deeper layers of tissue, often associated with allergic reactions or hereditary factors
Clinical context
A 24-year-old woman presents to the emergency department with sudden onset of facial swelling and difficulty breathing after eating shellfish. She has a history of similar episodes that resolve within 24 hours. Physical examination reveals bilateral periorbital edema and lip swelling without urticaria. Her vital signs are stable and she has no wheezing on pulmonary examination.
Mnemonic
ANGIOEDEMA - Allergic reaction, Never, Obstructive, Gastrointestinal, Edema, Emergency, Acute, Hereditary