Multicentre audit of ACE-inhibitor associated angioedema (MAAAA)

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are a commonly used class of medications that are generally well tolerated. However, angioedema, a rare but potentially life-threatening adverse effect, may occur.

A retrospective audit was performed on patients who presented with angioedema to two emergency departments in Adelaide, Australia. Case notes of patients presenting with angioedema who were using an ACE inhibitor were reviewed. This study examined the clinical features of presentation, treatment and outcomes of the patients.

A total of 164 patients were identified as having angioedema across the two emergency departments. Fifty-one (31%; 95% CI = 24-39) were found to be on an ACE inhibitor. The two main presenting symptoms were soft tissue swelling in the head and neck (98%), and respiratory distress (33%), both of which usually developed after several hours. Patients were commonly treated with steroids (70%), antihistamines (65%) and adrenaline (35%). Two patients developed airway obstruction.

A substantial proportion of emergency department encounters with angioedema in South Australia are from patients who also use an ACE inhibitor. It is important that general practitioners are aware of this problem, to enable rapid recognition and appropriate patient education when prescribing these medications.