angioedema

[an-jee-oh-i-dee-muh]

noun

Pathology.

1. swelling that occurs just beneath the surface of the skin or mucous membranes.

Word History and Origins

Origin of angioedema¹

angio- + edema

Example Sentences

The patients from New Zealand, the Netherlands and the UK have hereditary angioedema, a genetic disorder characterised by severe, painful and unpredictable swelling attacks.

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However, if they affect the tongue, throat or larynx, angioedema can be life-threatening for the patient due to the potential risk of suffocation.

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"Hereditary angioedema can cause patients severe swellings and intense pain, which can be life-threatening as well as restricting normal activities, such as going to work or school," he said.

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According to the NHS, angioedema is sudden swelling often caused by an allergic reaction and can be very serious.

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There is another kind of angioedema that can occur in the digestive tract.

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