Isolated visceral angioedema: an underdiagnosed complication of ACE inhibitors?

Mayo Clin Proc. 2000 Nov;75(11):1201-4. doi: 10.4065/75.11.1201.

Abstract

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are known to cause potentially fatal peripheral angioedema in some patients. ACE inhibitors may also cause isolated visceral angioedema, a rarely reported complication. This article describes 2 patients who experienced this complication. Both patients came to medical attention with episodes of recurrent abdominal symptoms that had occurred while taking ACE inhibitors for hypertension. Each patient had undergone surgical procedures for symptoms that persisted after surgery and were ultimately relieved with cessation of their ACE inhibitors. These cases call attention to what may be an underappreciated cause of abdominal pain in patients presenting to emergency departments.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Pain / etiology*
  • Adult
  • Angioedema / diagnostic imaging
  • Angioedema / etiology*
  • Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Fosinopril / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Lisinopril / adverse effects*
  • Male
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed

Substances

  • Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors
  • Lisinopril
  • Fosinopril