Angioedema
Angioedemas, Hereditary
Hereditary Angioedema Types I and II
Complement C1 Inhibitor Protein
Complement C1 Inactivator Proteins
Urticaria
Hereditary Angioedema Type III
Danazol
Stanozolol
Drug Hypersensitivity
Complement Inactivating Agents
Tongue Diseases
Skin Tests
Anaphylaxis
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors
Bradykinin
Complement C4
Ant Venoms
Familial anglo-oedema--a particularly severe form. (1/263)
A case of hereditary angio-oedema is described together with the family history and manifestations in the father of the patient. The problems encountered in his management are discussed, including tracheostomy and genetic counselling. (+info)Possible mechanisms of the first step of the classical complement activation pathway: binding and activation of C1. (2/263)
Different immunoglobulin preparations of human monoclonal IgM, normal human and rat IgG, as well as purified rabbit antibodies were treated by various methods, fragmentation, aggregation and complexing with antigen. The ability of the treated and untreated preparations to fix isolated human C1, to activate the classical complement pathway (to consume C4 in normal human serum) were compared. It was found that the different methods affected the conformation of the immunoglobulin molecules in different ways and induced changes to a greater or lesser extent in the two capacities of the preparations tested. In the case of the monoclonal IgM preparation a strong C1-fixation was observed without measurable complement activation. Other preparations, interfacially aggregated human IgG, BSA-anti-BSA and OA-anti-OA immune complexes had a very weak C1-fixing but a marked complement activating capacity. Some preparations, e.g. heat-aggregated IgG, both fixed and activated C1 effectively, aggregates with a complement-activating capacity without C1-fixing effect were separated by gel-filtration. It was demonstrated further, that at a given time only a part of the activated C1 molecules could be found fixed to the immunoglobulins, the other part was released into the fluid phase after activation. On the basis of the results of this and previous studies a hypothesis is proposed suggesting three possible results of the interaction between C1 and the different preparations: (1) firm fixation and activation; (2) binding not followed by activation and (3) a transient binding leading to activation. The possible application of this hypothesis for the interpretation of the results of the different methods for detecting immune complexes is discussed. (+info)Angioedema due to ACE inhibitors: increased risk in patients of African origin. (3/263)
AIMS: To determine patterns in presentation, risk factors, management and outcome of patients with ACE inhibitor associated angioedema in one British teaching hospital. METHODS: Cases of ACE inhibitor associated angioedema in patients presenting to the City Hospital, Birmingham between 1993 and 1999 were collected and entered prospectively onto a computerised register. RESULTS: A total of 20 cases (mean age 60 years, range 42-82 years) of ACE inhibitor associated angioedema were reported (11 female and 9 male) with 65% (n=13) of patients being black/Afro-Caribbean. In 70% of cases (n=14), angioedema occurred within 4 weeks of starting therapy, although three patients presented following long-term treatment (24-48 months). ACE inhibitors were continued in 50% (n=10) patients, despite at least one documented episode of angioedema. Admission to hospital was necessary in 40% (n=8) patients, with three of these admitted to the intensive care unit, and one of these died as a result of severe laryngeal obstruction. CONCLUSIONS: ACE inhibitor related angioedema is a serious and potentially fatal complication which is relatively rare in the general population, but is more common amongst black/Afro-Caribbean patients. ACE inhibitors are frequently continued following an episode of angioedema and it is important that these episodes are minimised by prompt cessation of the drug, careful patient counselling and heightened awareness in all clinicians who prescribe this common group of drugs. (+info)Epidemiology of drug exposure and adverse drug reactions in two swiss departments of internal medicine. (4/263)
AIMS: To explore drug exposure, frequency of adverse drug reactions (ADRs), types of ADRs, predisposing risk factors and ADR-related excess hospital stay in medical inpatients. METHODS: Structured data regarding patient characteristics, 'events' (symptoms, laboratory results), diagnoses (ICD10) and drug therapy were collected using a computer-supported data entry system and an interface for data retrieval from electronic patient records. ADR data were collected by 'event monitoring' to minimize possible bias by the drug monitor. The causality of each event was assessed in relation to disease(s) and drug therapy. RESULTS: The analysis included 4331 (100%) hospitalizations. The median observation period was 8 days. The median number of different drugs administered per patient and day was 6 and varied between 4 (Q1 ) and 9 (Q3 ) different drugs in 50% of all hospital days. In 41% of all hospitalizations at least one disease-unrelated event could be possibly attributed to drug therapy. Clinically relevant ADRs occurred in 11% of all hospitalizations. In 3.3% of all hospitalizations ADRs were the cause of hospital admission. The incidence of possibly ADR-related deaths was 1.4. Factors predisposing for clinically relevant ADRs were female gender and polypharmacy. ADR-related excess hospital stay accounted for 8. 6% of hospital days. CONCLUSIONS: These data demonstrate the feasibility of the developed 'event monitoring' system for quantitative analysis of ADRs in medical inpatients. With increasing numbers of recorded patients the pharmacoepidemiological database provides a valuable tool to study specific questions regarding drug efficacy and safety in hospitalized patients. (+info)Anaphylactoid reactions and angioedema during alteplase treatment of acute ischemic stroke. (5/263)
Among 105 patients given recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA, alteplase) intravenously for acute stroke, 2 (1.9%) had lingual angioedema, which progressed to a fatal anaphylactoid reaction in 1. The authors review the 2 cases and possible mechanisms responsible. They warn that patients who are taking an angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitor may be at increased risk for angioedema with concomitant alteplase therapy. (+info)Acquired angioedema with lymphoproliferative disorder: association of C1 inhibitor deficiency with cellular abnormality. (6/263)
A patient with a lymphoproliferative disorder, angioedema, and an acquired deficiency of the inhibitor of the activated first component of complement was studied. The patient's complement profile revealed depletion of the first component of complement, which has not been seen in angioedema of the hereditary type. There was no evidence for C1-depleting activity in the patient's plasma. The majority of the patient's peripheral blood mononuclear cells resembled B cells in their memebrane receptor properties and in that they carried easily detectable immunoglobulin, predominantly IgM. However, these cells were unusual in that they phagocytosed both latex particles and C3-coated erythrocytes. Morphological study of the cells infiltrating the patient's lung revealed immature, atypical, and plasmacytoid lymphocytes and immunoblasts. Both the patient's peripheral blood mononuclear cells and a suspension of cells from the pulmonary infiltrate were capable of depleting the first component of complement and its inhibitor from homologous plasma. Normal ABO-compatible cells did not possess this property. The data suggested that the patient's abnormal lymphoid cells may have interacted with the complement system to produce a biochemical defect and a clinical syndrome closely resembling angioedema of the hereditary type. (+info)Laparoscopic splenectomy in a patient with acquired angioneurotic edema. (7/263)
BACKGROUND: We report the case of a 77-year-old female with acquired angioneurotic edema, C1 esterase inhibitor level = 4mg/dL, who was scheduled to undergo laparoscopic splenectomy. METHODS: In the operating room, we administered on call 500 units (UI) of C1 esterase inhibitor concentrate intravenously. Intraoperative hemodynamic instability and generalized blood oozing improved following the administration of aprotinin 250000 UI intravenous (IV) drip. CONCLUSION: We recommend the administration of an antifibrinolytic agent in addition to C1 esterase inhibitor concentrate in patients with acquired angioneurotic edema. (+info)The pathogenesis of arthritis associated with acute hepatitis-B surface antigen-positive hepatitis. Complement activation and characterization of circulating immune complexes. (8/263)
Circulating immune complexes were identified in cryoproteins isolated from serial samples of serum from six patients with acute viral hepatitis with and without arthritic symptoms. Cryoprecipitates were analyzed for the presence of hepatitis-B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis-B surface antibody (anti-HBs) by hemagglutination inhibition and hemagglutination. Complement components were detected by counter electrophoresis, and immunoglobulins were detected by gel diffusion. HBsAg, IgG, and IgM were identified in cryoprecipitates from all hepatitis patients, but were higher in concentration in patients with arthritis. Only cryoprecipitates from hepatitis patients with arthritis contained IgA and complement components C3, C4, and C5 as well as IgG and IgM, which disappear with resolution of the arthritis. The subtypes of IgG in these cryoprecipitates were predominantly the complement-fixing IgG1 and IgG3, HBsAg and anti-HBs were concentrated several-fold in the cryoprecipitates when compared to the serum concentration. Sequential studies in two patients demonstrated that the initial appearance of anti-HBs in the cryoprotein complex was associated with the detection in the complex of IgM suggesting a primary immune response to HBsAg. The C3 activator fragment (C3A) of the properdin complex was found in fresh serum obtained from three hepatitis patients with arthritis and not in uncomplicated hepatitis. The cryoprecipitable immune complexes from patients with arthritis converted C3PA in fresh normal sera to C3A in vitro whereas cryoprotein isolated from patients with uncomplicated hepatitis had no such effect. Thus, the transient appearance of circulating complement-fixing immune complexes in patients with the arthritis of acute hepatitis is associated with activation of both classical and alternate complement pathways and suggests that they play an important role in the pathogenesis of these serum sickness-like extrahepatic symptoms. (+info)Angioedema is a medical condition characterized by rapid swelling of the skin, mucous membranes, and submucosal tissues. The swelling typically occurs in the face, lips, tongue, larynx, and extremities, and can also affect the gastrointestinal tract. Angioedema can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergic reactions, hereditary genetic mutations, and certain medications.
In medical terms, angioedema is defined as a self-limiting episode of localized edema in the deep dermis, subcutaneous tissue, or mucous membranes, characterized by well-circumscribed, nonpitting, nondependent swelling. The swelling can occur suddenly and may persist for up to 72 hours. In severe cases, angioedema can cause airway obstruction and be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Angioedema can be classified into two main types: allergic or non-allergic. Allergic angioedema is caused by an immune response to an allergen, such as food, medication, or insect venom. Non-allergic angioedema can be further divided into several subtypes, including hereditary angioedema (HA), acquired angioedema (AAE), and drug-induced angioedema.
Hereditary angioedema is a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in the C1 inhibitor gene, leading to uncontrolled activation of the complement system and increased production of bradykinin, a potent vasodilator. Acquired angioedema is similar to hereditary angioedema but occurs later in life and is associated with underlying medical conditions such as lymphoproliferative disorders or autoimmune diseases. Drug-induced angioedema can be caused by a variety of medications, including ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
The diagnosis of angioedema is typically based on clinical presentation, medical history, and laboratory tests. Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the condition but may include antihistamines, corticosteroids, epinephrine, and medications that target the complement system or bradykinin pathway. In severe cases, hospitalization and intensive care may be necessary to manage airway obstruction and other complications.
Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of swelling in various parts of the body, including the face, lips, tongue, throat, hands, feet, and/or genitals. The swelling can also affect the gastrointestinal tract, causing abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
HAE is caused by a deficiency or dysfunction of the C1 inhibitor protein, which is a part of the body's immune system that helps regulate inflammation and blood vessel dilation. As a result, people with HAE have uncontrolled activation of the complement system and increased levels of bradykinin, a potent vasodilator that causes the characteristic swelling.
There are three types of HAE: type I, type II, and type III. Type I and type II are caused by mutations in the gene that codes for the C1 inhibitor protein, resulting in low levels or dysfunctional C1 inhibitor protein. Type III is caused by a mutation in the coagulation factor XII gene, leading to overactivation of the contact system and increased bradykinin production.
HAE is an inherited disorder, typically passed down from parent to child in an autosomal dominant pattern. This means that a person has a 50% chance of inheriting the mutated gene from an affected parent and developing HAE. However, up to 25% of cases may occur spontaneously due to new mutations in the gene.
Treatment for HAE includes medications to prevent or reduce the severity and frequency of attacks, such as C1 inhibitor replacement therapy, attenuated androgens, and monoclonal antibodies against kallikrein. In addition, acute attacks can be treated with on-demand therapies, such as plasma-derived C1 inhibitor, icatibant, and ecallantide.
Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare genetic disorder that affects the body's immune system and causes recurring episodes of swelling (angioedema). The two most common types of HAE are Type I and Type II, which are caused by mutations in the SERPING1 gene.
Type I HAE: This is the most common form of HAE, accounting for about 85% of cases. In Type I HAE, there is a deficiency of C1 inhibitor (C1-INH), a protein that helps regulate the immune system and prevent inflammation. As a result, levels of bradykinin, a peptide that causes blood vessels to dilate and leads to swelling, are increased. This can cause episodes of swelling in various parts of the body, including the face, hands, feet, and airways.
Type II HAE: This form of HAE is less common than Type I, accounting for about 15% of cases. In Type II HAE, there are normal or even elevated levels of C1-INH in the blood, but the protein is dysfunctional and cannot properly regulate the immune system. This also leads to increased levels of bradykinin and episodes of angioedema.
Both types of HAE can be serious and potentially life-threatening if swelling occurs in the airways and obstructs breathing. Treatment typically involves medications that help control the production of bradykinin or block its effects, as well as measures to prevent and manage symptoms during an acute attack.
The Complement C1 Inhibitor protein, also known as C1-INH, is a protein involved in the regulation of the complement system and the contact system, which are parts of the immune system. The complement system helps to eliminate pathogens (e.g., bacteria, viruses) from the body, while the contact system helps to regulate blood coagulation and inflammation.
C1-INH works by inhibiting the activation of C1, an enzyme complex that is the first component of the classical complement pathway. By inhibiting C1, C1-INH prevents the activation of downstream components of the complement system, thereby helping to regulate the immune response and prevent excessive inflammation.
Deficiencies or dysfunction in the C1-INH protein can lead to a group of genetic disorders known as C1 inhibitor deficiency disorders, which include hereditary angioedema (HAE) and acquired angioedema (AAE). These conditions are characterized by recurrent episodes of swelling in various parts of the body, such as the face, hands, feet, and airway, which can be painful and potentially life-threatening if they affect the airway.
Complement C1 Inactivator proteins are a part of the complement system, which is a group of proteins in the blood that play a crucial role in the body's immune defense system. Specifically, Complement C1 Inactivator proteins are responsible for regulating the activation of the first component of the complement system, C1.
The complement system is activated in response to the presence of foreign substances such as bacteria or viruses in the body. The activation of C1 leads to a cascade of reactions that result in the destruction of the foreign substance. However, if this process is not properly regulated, it can lead to damage to the body's own cells and tissues.
Complement C1 Inactivator proteins help to prevent this by regulating the activation of C1. They do this by binding to and inhibiting the activity of C1, preventing it from initiating the complement cascade. A deficiency in Complement C1 Inactivator proteins can lead to a condition called hereditary angioedema, which is characterized by recurrent episodes of swelling in various parts of the body.
Urticaria, also known as hives, is an allergic reaction that appears on the skin. It is characterized by the rapid appearance of swollen, pale red bumps or plaques (wheals) on the skin, which are often accompanied by itching, stinging, or burning sensations. These wheals can vary in size and shape, and they may change location and appear in different places over a period of hours or days. Urticaria is usually caused by an allergic reaction to food, medication, or other substances, but it can also be triggered by physical factors such as heat, cold, pressure, or exercise. The condition is generally harmless, but severe cases of urticaria may indicate a more serious underlying medical issue and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Hereditary Angioedema (HAE) Type III is a rare genetic disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of severe swelling (angioedema) that can affect various parts of the body, including the hands, feet, limbs, face, and airway. Unlike HAE Types I and II, which are caused by deficiency or dysfunction of the C1 inhibitor protein, HAE Type III is associated with normal C1 inhibitor levels but increased activation of the contact system, leading to bradykinin-mediated vasodilation and increased vascular permeability.
HAE Type III primarily affects women and is often triggered by estrogen fluctuations, such as those occurring during pregnancy, menstruation, or the use of oral contraceptives. The symptoms of HAE Type III can be similar to those of HAE Types I and II but may also include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
It is important to note that the medical community has debated whether HAE Type III is a distinct clinical entity or a variant of other forms of HAE. Some experts consider it to be a form of acquired angioedema (AAE) rather than a hereditary disorder. Regardless, prompt diagnosis and appropriate management are essential for preventing potentially life-threatening complications, such as airway obstruction.
Danazol is a synthetic, orally active androgenic steroid with antigonadotropic properties. It is used primarily in the treatment of endometriosis, fibrocystic breast disease, and hereditary angioedema. Danazol works by suppressing the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland, which in turn inhibits the growth of ovarian tissue and reduces the production of estrogen and progesterone. This leads to a decrease in the symptoms associated with endometriosis and fibrocystic breast disease. In the case of hereditary angioedema, danazol helps prevent attacks by increasing the levels of a protein called C1 esterase inhibitor, which is necessary for regulating the immune system and preventing inflammation.
The common side effects of danazol include weight gain, acne, oily skin, increased hair growth, changes in menstrual cycle, decreased breast size, deepening of the voice, and emotional lability. Rare but serious side effects may include liver damage, blood clots, and adrenal gland problems. Danazol is contraindicated in pregnancy due to its potential virilizing effects on the fetus. It should be used with caution in individuals with a history of liver disease, heart disease, or seizure disorders.
The medical definition of danazol can be summarized as follows:
Danazol (dan-a-zole)
A synthetic androgenic steroid with antigonadotropic properties, used primarily in the treatment of endometriosis, fibrocystic breast disease, and hereditary angioedema. Danazol suppresses the release of FSH and LH from the pituitary gland, inhibiting ovarian tissue growth and reducing estrogen and progesterone production. In hereditary angioedema, danazol increases C1 esterase inhibitor levels to prevent attacks. Common side effects include weight gain, acne, increased hair growth, menstrual changes, decreased breast size, deepened voice, and emotional lability. Rare but serious side effects may involve liver damage, blood clots, or adrenal gland problems. Danazol is contraindicated in pregnancy due to potential virilizing effects on the fetus and should be used with caution in individuals with a history of liver disease, heart disease, or seizure disorders.
Stanozolol is a synthetic anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) derivative of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). It is commonly used in medicine for the treatment of hereditary angioedema and was formerly used to promote muscle growth in weakened or catabolic patients. Stanozolol has a high anabolic and moderate androgenic activity, with reduced estrogenic properties compared to testosterone. Its chemical formula is (17α-methyl-5α-androstano[2,3-c]pyrazol-17β-ol). It is important to note that the use of Stanozolol for performance enhancement is considered illegal and subject to severe penalties in many countries, including disqualification from sports events and criminal charges.
Drug hypersensitivity is an abnormal immune response to a medication or its metabolites. It is a type of adverse drug reaction that occurs in susceptible individuals, characterized by the activation of the immune system leading to inflammation and tissue damage. This reaction can range from mild symptoms such as skin rashes, hives, and itching to more severe reactions like anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening.
Drug hypersensitivity reactions can be classified into two main types: immediate (or IgE-mediated) and delayed (or non-IgE-mediated). Immediate reactions occur within minutes to a few hours after taking the medication and are mediated by the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators from mast cells and basophils. Delayed reactions, on the other hand, can take several days to develop and are caused by T-cell activation and subsequent cytokine release.
Common drugs that can cause hypersensitivity reactions include antibiotics (such as penicillins and sulfonamides), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), monoclonal antibodies, and chemotherapeutic agents. It is important to note that previous exposure to a medication does not always guarantee the development of hypersensitivity reactions, as they can also occur after the first administration in some cases.
The diagnosis of drug hypersensitivity involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and sometimes skin or laboratory tests. Treatment typically includes avoiding the offending medication and managing symptoms with antihistamines, corticosteroids, or other medications as needed. In severe cases, emergency medical care may be required to treat anaphylaxis or other life-threatening reactions.
Complement inactivating agents are substances or drugs that inhibit the complement system, which is a part of the immune system responsible for the recognition and elimination of foreign substances and microorganisms. The complement system consists of a group of proteins that work together to help eliminate pathogens from the body.
Complement inactivating agents are used in medical settings to prevent or treat various conditions associated with excessive or unwanted activation of the complement system, such as inflammation, autoimmune diseases, and transplant rejection. These agents can inhibit different components of the complement pathway, including C1 esterase inhibitors, C3 convertase inhibitors, and C5a receptor antagonists.
Examples of complement inactivating agents include eculizumab, ravulizumab, and Alexion's Ultomiris, which are monoclonal antibodies that target C5, a protein involved in the final steps of the complement pathway. These drugs have been approved for the treatment of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS), and other complement-mediated diseases.
Other complement inactivating agents include C1 esterase inhibitors, such as Berinert and Ruconest, which are used to treat hereditary angioedema (HAE). These drugs work by inhibiting the activation of the classical pathway of the complement system, thereby preventing the release of inflammatory mediators that can cause swelling and pain.
Overall, complement inactivating agents play an important role in the treatment of various complement-mediated diseases, helping to reduce inflammation, prevent tissue damage, and improve patient outcomes.
Tongue diseases refer to various medical conditions that affect the structure, function, or appearance of the tongue. These conditions can be categorized into several types, including:
1. Infections: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can cause tongue inflammation (glossitis), pain, and ulcers. Common causes include streptococcus, herpes simplex, and candida albicans.
2. Traumatic injuries: These can result from accidental bites, burns, or irritation caused by sharp teeth, dental appliances, or habitual habits like tongue thrusting or chewing.
3. Neoplasms: Both benign and malignant growths can occur on the tongue, such as papillomas, fibromas, and squamous cell carcinoma.
4. Congenital disorders: Some individuals may be born with abnormalities of the tongue, like ankyloglossia (tongue-tie) or macroglossia (enlarged tongue).
5. Neurological conditions: Certain neurological disorders can affect tongue movement and sensation, such as Bell's palsy, stroke, or multiple sclerosis.
6. Systemic diseases: Various systemic conditions can have symptoms that manifest on the tongue, like diabetes mellitus (which can cause dryness and furring), iron deficiency anemia (which may lead to atrophic glossitis), or Sjögren's syndrome (which can result in xerostomia).
7. Idiopathic: In some cases, the cause of tongue symptoms remains unknown, leading to a diagnosis of idiopathic glossitis or burning mouth syndrome.
Proper diagnosis and treatment of tongue diseases require a thorough examination by a healthcare professional, often involving a dental or medical specialist such as an oral pathologist, otolaryngologist, or dermatologist.
Skin tests are medical diagnostic procedures that involve the application of a small amount of a substance to the skin, usually through a scratch, prick, or injection, to determine if the body has an allergic reaction to it. The most common type of skin test is the patch test, which involves applying a patch containing a small amount of the suspected allergen to the skin and observing the area for signs of a reaction, such as redness, swelling, or itching, over a period of several days. Another type of skin test is the intradermal test, in which a small amount of the substance is injected just beneath the surface of the skin. Skin tests are used to help diagnose allergies, including those to pollen, mold, pets, and foods, as well as to identify sensitivities to medications, chemicals, and other substances.
Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening systemic allergic reaction that occurs suddenly after exposure to an allergen (a substance that triggers an allergic reaction) to which the person has previously been sensitized. The symptoms of anaphylaxis include rapid onset of symptoms such as itching, hives, swelling of the throat and tongue, difficulty breathing, wheezing, cough, chest tightness, rapid heartbeat, hypotension (low blood pressure), shock, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness and death. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment with epinephrine (adrenaline) and other supportive measures to stabilize the patient's condition.
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are a class of medications that are commonly used to treat various cardiovascular conditions, such as hypertension (high blood pressure), heart failure, and diabetic nephropathy (kidney damage in people with diabetes).
ACE inhibitors work by blocking the action of angiotensin-converting enzyme, an enzyme that converts the hormone angiotensin I to angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictor, meaning it narrows blood vessels and increases blood pressure. By inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, ACE inhibitors cause blood vessels to relax and widen, which lowers blood pressure and reduces the workload on the heart.
Some examples of ACE inhibitors include captopril, enalapril, lisinopril, ramipril, and fosinopril. These medications are generally well-tolerated, but they can cause side effects such as cough, dizziness, headache, and elevated potassium levels in the blood. It is important for patients to follow their healthcare provider's instructions carefully when taking ACE inhibitors and to report any unusual symptoms or side effects promptly.
Bradykinin is a naturally occurring peptide in the human body, consisting of nine amino acids. It is a potent vasodilator and increases the permeability of blood vessels, causing a local inflammatory response. Bradykinin is formed from the breakdown of certain proteins, such as kininogen, by enzymes called kininases or proteases, including kallikrein. It plays a role in several physiological processes, including pain transmission, blood pressure regulation, and the immune response. In some pathological conditions, such as hereditary angioedema, bradykinin levels can increase excessively, leading to symptoms like swelling, redness, and pain.
Complement C4 is a protein that plays a crucial role in the complement system, which is a part of the immune system that helps to clear pathogens and damaged cells from the body. Complement C4 is involved in the early stages of the complement activation cascade, where it helps to identify and tag foreign or abnormal cells for destruction by other components of the immune system.
Specifically, Complement C4 can be cleaved into two smaller proteins, C4a and C4b, during the complement activation process. C4b then binds to the surface of the target cell and helps to initiate the formation of the membrane attack complex (MAC), which creates a pore in the cell membrane and leads to lysis or destruction of the target cell.
Deficiencies or mutations in the Complement C4 gene can lead to various immune disorders, including certain forms of autoimmune diseases and susceptibility to certain infections.
Ant venoms are toxic secretions produced by various species of ants as a defense mechanism against predators and to incapacitate their prey. The composition of ant venoms varies among different species, but they typically contain a mixture of alkaloids, peptides, and proteins that can cause a range of symptoms in humans, from mild irritation and pain to severe allergic reactions.
The venom of some ant species, such as the fire ants (Solenopsis spp.), contains alkaloids that can cause painful pustules and itching, while the venom of other species, like the bulldog ants (Myrmecia spp.), contains proteins that can induce severe allergic reactions and even anaphylactic shock in sensitive individuals.
Understanding the composition and effects of ant venoms is important for developing effective treatments for ant stings and for studying their potential therapeutic applications, such as using ant venom components in pain management or as leads for new drug development.
Stomatognathic diseases are a group of disorders that affect the stomatognathic system, which includes the teeth, periodontal tissues, temporomandibular joints, muscles of mastication, and associated structures. These diseases can manifest as various symptoms such as pain, difficulty in chewing or swallowing, limited mouth opening, and abnormal jaw movements.
Some examples of stomatognathic diseases include temporomandibular disorders (TMD), oral mucosal diseases, dental caries, periodontal disease, oral cancer, and sleep-related breathing disorders. The diagnosis and management of these conditions often require a multidisciplinary approach involving dentists, oral surgeons, orthodontists, physicians, and other healthcare professionals.