Acquired angioedema in a patient with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia

ABSTRACT

Acquired angioedema [AAE] is defined by acquired deficiency of C1 esterase inhibitor. It is a rare disorder characterized by recurrent angioedema without urticiaria, which may be associated with lymphoproliferative disorders [LPD]. We are reporting a case of 71 years old female, known case of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia [CLL] who presented to the emergency room [ER] with generalized body swelling during her disease course. Investigations were ordered to confirm that the symptoms were due to acquired angioedema, and the patient was managed for this diagnosis. Knowing the association between acquired angioedema and lymphoproliferative disorder is crucial, because AAE can be treated medically and responds within hours but delayed diagnosis can lead to unnecessary invasive procedures or asphyxiation and death due to laryngeal oedema. Finally, treating the underlying cause as CLL in our case could prevent further recurrence of angioedema