Vibratory angioedema

Vibratory Angioedema is a rare form of physical urticaria where the skin becomes swollen and inflamed after exposure to vibration. This condition is typically inherited and symptoms usually appear in childhood or early adulthood.

Symptoms

The main symptom of vibratory angioedema is the rapid onset of swelling (angioedema) and redness (erythema) of the skin and mucous membranes after exposure to vibration. This can occur after using tools that vibrate, riding in certain vehicles, or even clapping hands. The swelling usually lasts for less than an hour.

Causes

Vibratory angioedema is usually an inherited condition, passed down in an autosomal dominant manner. This means that an affected person has a 50% chance of passing the condition on to each of their children. The exact cause of vibratory angioedema is not known, but it is thought to involve a hypersensitivity of the skin to vibration.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of vibratory angioedema is usually made based on the characteristic symptoms and a positive vibration test. This test involves applying a vibrating device to the skin and observing for the development of swelling and redness.

Treatment

There is no cure for vibratory angioedema, but symptoms can often be managed with antihistamines and avoidance of vibration when possible. In severe cases, a type of medication called a corticosteroid may be used.

See also

• Physical urticaria
• Angioedema
• Urticaria

Vibratory angioedema Resources
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