Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System-Blocker-Induced Angioedema

Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS)-blocker induced angioedema (RAE) is a type of acquired angioedema (AAE, see this term) characterized by acute edema in subcutaneous tissues, viscera and/or the upper airway.

Clinical description

Like other forms of AAE it has a later onset than HAE (see this term) and occurs generally in adults.

Etiology

The main causative RAAS-blockers are the angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) which increase levels of bradykinin leading to increased vascular permeability and vasodilation. Angioedema develops in 0.1%-0.5% of patients taking these drugs. Angioedema develops more often at an early phase of treatment, but may also occur with long-term treatment. The same side effect appears more rarely with angiotensin II receptor antagonists (ARAIIs) and direct renin inhibitors (DRIs). Co-administration of ACEI and an antidiabetic agent, dipeptidylptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, significantly increases the risk of angioedema. This reaction imposes the immediate cessation of these drugs.

Management and treatment

The orphan drug icatibant or C1-INH concentrate can be effective for acute attack treatment.