Journal of Asthma, Allergy and Clinical Immunology  1998;18(1):90-95

Angioedema-like facial swelling as a first manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus.

O Yeong KWON ; Chang Hee SEO ; Sung Taek JUNG ; Dong Ho NAHM ; Hae Sim PARK

Keywords

angioedema fist manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus

Country

Republic of Korea

Language

Korean

Abstract

Angioedma is a group of disorders with multifactorial etiology but a similar clinical expression, is characterized by swelling of subcutaneous or submucosal tissue. Systemic lupus erythematosus(SLE) is a chronic multi-systemtic disease characterized by inflammation and tissue damage resulting from deposition of auto-antibodies and immune complex. We experienced a case of angioedema which was the first manifestation of SLE in 24-year-old female patient. She had suffered from severe facial edema and multiple lymphadenopathy for six months and she also had pleural effusion, positive anti-nuclear and anti-DNA antibody test. Marked decrease of C3 and C4 levels was noted with normal antigenic level, and activity of Cl esterase inhibitor. The angioedema was not improved with anti-hitamine agents and instead disappeared with use of corticosteroid and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Complement levels normalized after corticosteroid treament. We report a case of SLE which initial manifestation was angioedema.