Laryngo- rhino- otologie
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Laryngo- rhino- otologie · Jun 2007
[Quincke's edema: diagnosis and management of 102 patients with sudden upper airway obstruction].
Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is extremely rare and clinically characterized by recurrent and self-limiting skin, intestinal and life threatening laryngeal edema. Because of the danger of asphyxiation, it is vital that acute attacks of laryngeal edema be interrupted immediately. The aim of this study is to provide information on the incidence, diagnosis and treatment of laryngeal edema with upper airway obstruction in general and due to HAE. ⋯ According to our experience almost all patients with laryngeal swelling and upper airway obstruction react well to the standard therapy with steroids and anti-histamines. In contrast these drugs have no effect on HAE. Replacement therapy with C1-INH has proved to be effective. The challenge is to realize whether an airway obstruction is due to HAE or not. In this case, careful observation, the right medication and an appropriate airway management are lifesaving. The possibility of sudden airway obstruction and asphyxiation must be discussed with these patients and their relatives.