About hereditary angioedema (HAE)
HAE is characterized by the overproduction of bradykinin, leading to acute HAE attacks1–5
HAE is a rare and life-long, genetic condition that affects somewhere between 1 in 10,000–50,000 people in the general population.1–5
HAE is usually caused by a shortage or malfunctioning of a protein called C1 esterase inhibitor (C1-INH).1–5 This leads to the overproduction of another protein called bradykinin, which can cause an HAE attack.1–5
Diagnosis of HAE remains an ongoing challenge1,5
Exactly where in the body, how often and how severe is different for everyone and can change over time.1 Because HAE is so rare, it can be difficult to diagnose in the beginning and symptoms are often confused with other conditions, such as allergies.5
Treatment is critical for patients suffering acute HAE attacks1
During an HAE attack, fluid in the blood vessels leaks into the surrounding area, causing painful and sometimes disfiguring swelling—most commonly in the face, feet, hands, stomach, genitals, and even the throat.1–6 While attacks on the throat are less frequent, they are potentially life-threatening, as the swelling can interfere with breathing.2–4
References
- Maurer M, et al. Allergy. 2018;73(8):1575–1596.
- Zuraw BL, et al. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract. 2013;1(5):458–467.
- El-Shanawany T. Hereditary Angioedema. British Society for Immunology. https://www.immunology.org/public-information/bitesized-immunology/immune-dysfunction/hereditary-angioedema (accessed October 2021).
- Ghazi A, Grant JA. Biologics. 2013;7:103–113.
- Lumry W, et al. Journal of Infusion Nursing. 2020;43(3):134–145.
- SAJAZIR™ (icatibant) Injection. Prescribing Information. Cycle Pharmaceuticals Limited.