Current treatment of hereditary angioedema: An update on clinical studies

Allergy Asthma Proc. 2010 Sep-Oct;31(5):398-406. doi: 10.2500/aap.2010.31.3387.

Abstract

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare, potentially life-threatening disease that manifests as recurrent episodes of nonpruritic swelling that may affect the extremities, face, genitalia, gastrointestinal tract, and/or larynx. HAE is the result of a deficiency of functional C1-esterase inhibitor (C1-INH), a key regulator of the complement, coagulation, and kallikrein-kinin cascades. In HAE patients, overactivation of the kallikrein-kinin cascade results in excessive release of bradykinin, the mediator of the pain and swelling that is characteristic of HAE. Historically, treatment options for HAE have been limited, but newly approved and emerging therapies, such as C1-INH replacement products, a plasma kallikrein inhibitor, and a bradykinin B₂-receptor antagonist, appear to provide safe and effective relief for a significant proportion of patients with HAE. Because they may have therapeutic and practical advantages over existing HAE therapies, the new agents have the potential to improve the overall management of patients with HAE. This article reviews the results from recent clinical trials of these drugs and considers their role in clinical practice.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Angioedemas, Hereditary / drug therapy*
  • Bradykinin Receptor Antagonists*
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Complement C1 Inhibitor Protein / therapeutic use*
  • Complement Inactivating Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Plasma Kallikrein / antagonists & inhibitors*
  • Plasma Kallikrein / therapeutic use
  • Receptors, Bradykinin / therapeutic use
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Bradykinin Receptor Antagonists
  • Complement C1 Inhibitor Protein
  • Complement Inactivating Agents
  • Receptors, Bradykinin
  • Plasma Kallikrein