Health Topics

The most common cause of HAE is a decrease in C1 esterase inhibitor (C1 INH), a protein that is part of our body’s normal immune system.

Patients with HAE do not experience hives. Allergic reactions to foods or stinging insects, which may cause hives, may also cause angioedema.

Pressure, trauma, or emotional stress can trigger an attack; however, the trigger of most attacks is unknown.

• Typical attacks last for about 1-3 days.
• If your child develops an acute attack, please contact your physician or go to the emergency room.

• Cinryze, a new medication that contains CI INH, may be used to treat acute attacks
• Fresh frozen plasma may also be used to treat acute attacks
• New medications are currently being developed to help treat acute attacks for HAE  

• Danazol, a type of steroid, is very useful for the prevention of an acute attack
• Cinryze, a new medication that contains CI INH, was recently approved by the FDA to prevent an attack
• Fresh frozen plasma has also been used successfully to prevent an attack prior to surgery or a dental procedure