Open AccessNew approach in prophylactic treatment of a challenged HAE patient
Author(s) -
Oda Marie Jordal,
Anette Bygum
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
bmj case reports
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.231
H-Index - 26
ISSN - 1757-790X
DOI - 10.1136/bcr-2018-227061
Subject(s) - medicine , hereditary angioedema , prophylactic treatment , intensive care medicine , c1 inhibitor , angioedema , quality of life (healthcare) , surgery , dermatology , nursing
Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a relapsing swelling disorder which can cause severe pain, affect quality of life and potentially be life threatening with involvement of the airways. We present a 34-year-old immigrant who suffered from very frequent and severe HAE attacks. The attacks often involved the face, mouth and the airways. She often went to the hospital for treatment, where the language barrier made the situation complicated. The traditional therapy for HAE was not successful treating this patient. In June 2017, off-label treatment with prophylactic subcutaneous complement C1-inhibitor concentrate was initiated. The treatment was very successful and the patient has not been hospitalised since. Treatment for HAE is nowadays under investigation, and many drugs are under development. Especially, medication which works prophylactically and is administered orally or subcutaneously is in the horizon.