Hereditary Angioedema

Hereditary Angioedema (HAE) is a genetic condition that causes unpredictable episodes of swelling in parts of the body such as the face, throat, hands, or feet. This swelling occurs because of a deficiency or malfunction of a protein called C1 inhibitor, which normally helps control immune system activity. Without enough functioning C1 inhibitor, certain inflammatory substances increase, leading to vascular leakage and swelling. These episodes can be painful, last several days, and occasionally threaten breathing if the throat swells. HAE is inherited and requires medical management to prevent or reduce the severity of attacks.