There are several types of angioedema, each with different underlying causes. The main types of angioedema include:
- Allergic Angioedema: This type of angioedema is triggered by an allergic reaction to specific allergens, such as certain foods, medications, insect stings, or latex. It is often accompanied by other allergic symptoms, such as hives (urticaria).
- Hereditary Angioedema (HAE): HAE is a rare genetic disorder caused by a deficiency or dysfunction of a protein called C1 esterase inhibitor (C1-INH). It is not related to allergies and is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. HAE can be further divided into three types: HAE type 1, HAE type 2, and HAE with normal C1-INH.
- Acquired Angioedema: Acquired angioedema is a rare condition that is not inherited but develops later in life due to various underlying medical conditions. It can be caused by the presence of autoantibodies against C1 esterase inhibitor (acquired C1-INH deficiency) or as a result of certain types of cancers, autoimmune disorders, or other systemic diseases.
- Drug-induced Angioedema: Some medications, particularly angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors used to treat hypertension, can cause angioedema as a side effect. This type of angioedema may occur shortly after starting the medication or even after long-term use.
- Idiopathic Angioedema: Idiopathic angioedema refers to cases where the cause of angioedema remains unknown despite a thorough evaluation. The exact mechanisms underlying idiopathic angioedema are not fully understood.
It is important to determine the specific type of angioedema to guide appropriate treatment and management strategies. If you experience angioedema or have concerns about it, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional, such as an allergist or immunologist, who can conduct a comprehensive evaluation and provide personalized care based on your specific situation.