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Losartan-Induced Angioedema: A Case Report.
Henry Mann1, Sagar Pandey1, Sindhu Pokhriyal1
1Internal Medicine, One Brooklyn Health System, Interfaith Medical Center, New York City, USA.
Cureus
|May 22, 2023
Summary
Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) can cause angioedema, a rare but serious side effect. This case highlights a severe instance of losartan-induced angioedema, emphasizing the need for awareness.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pharmacology
- Nephrology
Background:
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are known to cause angioedema.
- Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are widely used for hypertension, heart failure, and kidney disease.
- The incidence and severity of ARB-induced angioedema remain less understood compared to ACE inhibitors.
Observation:
- A case of a 48-year-old African American male experiencing severe angioedema after initiating losartan.
- The angioedema necessitated a tracheostomy for airway management.
- This represents one of only twenty reported cases of losartan-induced angioedema in the literature.
Findings:
- Losartan, an ARB, can precipitate life-threatening angioedema.
- Prompt medical intervention, including airway support, is crucial in managing severe ARB-induced angioedema.
- Despite short-term recovery, the patient experienced a fatal cardiac arrest months later, suggesting potential long-term implications.
Implications:
- Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for angioedema in patients taking ARBs, including losartan.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms and long-term outcomes of ARB-induced angioedema.
- This case underscores the importance of comprehensive patient monitoring following ARB initiation.
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