Angioedema in dentistry

PubMed, the Internet portal of biomedical and life sciences literature, indexed an interesting article, entitled “Angio-oedema in dentistry: management of two cases using C1 esterase inhibitor” (Dent Update. 2005 Jul-Aug;32(6):350-2, 354 ). Authors are Socker M, Boyle C and Burke M from the Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust. Angioedema is a rare condition; it may be a hereditary or acquired form. It results from biochemical defects and result in deep swellings in the skin and alimentary tract, called angioedema. These swellings are painful rather than itchy and not associated with urticaria, which helps to differentiate angioedema from allergic reactions. Management of two cases, one hereditary and the other acquired angioedema, are reported to demonstrate the use of C1 esterase inhibitor prophylaxis. To access the abstract of the article, click here.