[Classification and pathophysiology of angioedema].

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Allergy
• Dermatology

Background:

• Classifying angioedema in clinical practice presents significant challenges.
• Understanding the underlying mechanisms is crucial for accurate diagnosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current angioedema classification systems.
• To discuss the distinct pathologies of different angioedema subtypes.

Main Methods:

• Evaluation of current clinical guidelines.
• Review of recent research on angioedema pathophysiology.
• Analysis of diagnostic approaches.

Main Results:

• Angioedema is primarily categorized as mast cell mediator-induced or bradykinin-mediated.
• Mast cell mediator-induced angioedema includes allergic reactions and chronic urticaria.
• Bradykinin-mediated angioedema encompasses hereditary and ACE inhibitor-induced forms, often more severe.

Conclusions:

• Most angioedema cases can be classified using clinical and laboratory findings.
• Distinguishing between mast cell mediator-induced and bradykinin-mediated angioedema is key.
• Rare instances of unknown angioedema etiology persist.