Recent developments in the treatment of acute abdominal and facial attacks of hereditary angioedema: focus on human C1 esterase inhibitor.

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a potentially fatal genetic disorder typified by a deficiency (type I) or dysfunction (type II) of the C1-inhibitor (C1-INH) and characterized by swelling of the extremities, face, trunk, abdominal viscera, and upper airway. Type III is normal estrogen-sensitive C1-INH HAE. Bradykinin, the main mediator of HAE, binds to endothelial B2 receptors, increasing vascular permeability and resulting in edema. HAE management includes short- and long-term prophylaxis. For treating acute episodes, C1-INH concentrate is recommended with regression of symptoms achieved in 30-90 min. Infusions of 500-1000 U have been used in Europe for years. Two plasma-derived C1-INH concentrates have been licensed recently in the United States: Berinert(®) for treating acute attacks and Cinryze(®) for prophylaxis in adolescent/adult patients. A recombinant C1-INH that is being considered for approval (conestat alfa) exhibited significant superiority versus placebo. Ecallantide (Kalbitor(®)) is a selective kallikrein inhibitor recently licensed in the United States for treating acute attacks in patients aged >16 years. It is administered in three 10-mg subcutaneous injections with the risk of anaphylactic reactions. Icatibant (Firazyr(®)) is a bradykinin B2 receptor competitor. It is administered subcutaneously as a 30-mg injection and approved in Europe but not in the United States.

Introduction

Angioedema is a localized, transient swelling of the deeper layers of the skin or mucous membranes of the upper respiratory or gastrointestinal tract. The swelling has a predilection for the areas of more loosely attached skin (lips, face, tongue, genitals, extremities, or larynx). A burning sensation or pain may be present, but pruritus or erythema is absent. This is in contrast to urticaria with angioedema, which is characterized by itching and wheals.1

There are two distinct pathophysiological pathways leading to angioedema: histamine-mediated angioedema and kinin-mediated angioedema (Table 1).2

Table 1

Classification of angioedema

Histamine-mediated angioedema

Allergic (IgE-mediated) reactions to foods, medications, or other allergens

Physical stimuli

Chronic idiopathic urticaria and angioedema

Chronic autoimmune urticaria and angioedema

Bradykinin-mediated angioedema

ACE inhibitor-induced angioedema

HAE angioedema: type I, II, and II

Acquired angioedema

I diopathic angioedema

Abbreviations: IgE, immunoglobulin E; ACE, angiotensin-converting enzyme; HAE, hereditary angioedema.

In histamine-mediated angioedema, degranulation of mast cells can be by cross-linking of immunoglobulin E (IgE) bound by autoantibodies against the mast cell IgE receptor or by direct response to different agents such as opiates or contrast medium. Histamine released by mast cells increases local blood flow and endothelium permeability. Clinically, it produces urticaria, angioedema, and, in severe cases, anaphylaxis. However, in kinin-mediated angioedema, bradykinin binds to receptors on the vascular endothelium and increases vascular permeability and leakage of plasma into the interstitial space. This angioedema is not associated with urticaria. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor-induced angioedema and hereditary angioedema (HAE) occur as a result of kinin effects.1

Hereditary angioedema

Epidemiology and types

HAE is a potentially fatal genetic disorder typified by a deficiency or dysfunction of the plasma protein C1-INH, and characterized clinically by swelling of the extremities, face, trunk, abdominal viscera, and upper airway.3 HAE has an incidence of <1/50,000 persons.

The disease is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. About 85% of patients have low levels of C1-INH (type I) and in 15% of patients the protein is nonfunctional (type II).

HAE is a result of C1-inhibitor (C1-INH) deficiency. This serine protease inhibitor plays an important role in the regulation of the complement, contact, and fibrinolytic systems. Those affected are heterozygous for C1-INH mutations, which result in low levels of circulating C1-INH (type I HAE) or normal levels of a nonfunctional C1-INH (type II HAE). Both types are indistinguishable clinically.4

HAE type III is an autosomal dominant inherited angioedema without abnormalities of complement or C1-INH.5 It is estrogen-sensitive, often appearing during pregnancy or estrogen administration, and it is usually symptomatic only in women.

Although patients with acquired angioedema (AAE) have symptoms similar to HAE, there is a lack of a family history. It starts commonly in middle age and is associated with lymphoproliferative disease, autoimmune disease, vasculitis, or infection. C1-INH deficiency occurs as a result of increased consumption by paraprotein or immune complexes (type I AAE), or direct cleavage by C1-INH autoantibodies (type II AAE).3

Immunology and genetics

C1-INH is mainly produced in the liver. It is the main regulator of the early activation steps of the classical complement pathway and the plasma pathways for bradykinin formation. In the absence of C1-INH, the classical complement pathway is excessively activated. Immune complexes trigger the activation of the first component C1q to C1qrs. C1 esterase then acts with C4 and C2 to form the complex C4b2a. Formation of this new complex in association with a C3 activation leads to the production of anaphylactic, chemotactic, and vasoactive peptides.

Although activation of the complement system in HAE may contribute to the initiation, duration, and severity of attacks by consuming C1-INH, the primary mediators of vascular permeability leading to angioedema are products of the contact system or kallikrein-kinin pathway.6 A summary of the C1 regulation points in these pathways is shown in Figure 1. C1-INH deficiency results in an increase in kallikrein, which, in turn, increases bradykinin production. Inhibitory effects of C1 on factor XIIa and plasmin have also been described. Estrogen therapy may raise blood levels of factor XII.7

Figure 1

C1-INH regulates the contact and classical complement pathways and the fibrinolytic system by inhibition at a variety of points marked with arrows ( ).

Abbreviation: C1-INH, C1-inhibitor.

More than 180 different mutations in the C1-INH gene (SERPING1/C1-INH) on chromosome band 11q12–q13.1 have been described, 25% being spontaneous mutations. There is no correlation between symptoms and type of genetic defect.

Mutations in the C1-INH gene may be seen along the entire protein sequence. Type I mutations are those in which the gene product is not translated into a viable protein product. These mutations are likely to be insertions, deletions, transversions, formation of stop codons, or altered carbohydrate linkages needed for secretion.8,9 Type II disease is typified by mutations that involve single amino acid substitutions, which are more likely to lead to synthesis of a dysfunctional protein. Genetic tests are not currently indicated routinely; however, under certain circumstances a genetic test may be of use.10

Patients with HAE have a higher incidence of autoimmune diseases, although they are usually mild.11

Laboratory tests

Serum C4 level is a good screening test for HAE as it is low in untreated HAE. If the C4 level is low, then C1-INH level and function should be assessed. If HAE is highly suspected in spite of normal C4 levels, C1-INH function should be measured.4 The diagnosis of type I HAE is by demonstrating low amounts of C1-INH.12 An absence of function suggests a type II defect. In Table 2, the laboratory findings in different types of angioedema are detailed. Interpretation in very young children is difficult due to paucity of data regarding reference ranges in children.

Table 2

Laboratory results for HAE

Type AE	C4	C1q	C1-INH (concentration)	C1-INH (functional)
HAE-I	↓	N	↓	↓
HAE-II	↓	N	N	↓
HAE-II	N	N	N	N
AAE	↓	↓	↓	↓

Abbreviations: HAE, hereditary angioedema; C1-INH, C1-inhibitor; AAE, acquired angioedema; ↓, decreased; N, normal.

Clinical characteristics

Angioedema attack begins with trauma, infection, febrile illness, and other unknown factors that lead to activation of the complement, contact, and/or fibrinolytic systems. This leads to consumption of C1-INH, which results in complete deregulation of the complement and contact systems with decreasing levels of C4 and C2, and the generation of bradykinin. Bradykinin is the main mediator of HAE.13 Bradykinin binds to B2 bradykinin receptors on the endothelial cells and causes an increase in vascular permeability, which results in edema.

Most HAE episodes only involve the skin and subcutaneous tissue. However, the upper respiratory tract and the majority of visceral organs may also be affected.14,15

Cutaneous and subcutaneous lesions

Clinically, skin lesions of HAE consist of recurrent episodes of subcutaneous edema. The lesions are typically nonpruritic and nonpitting and usually involve the arms, legs, hands, feet, trunk, face, tongue, or larynx.15,16 Upper extremities are involved more often than the lower ones.15 Facial areas more frequently involved are the lips, eyelids, and tongue.17,18 Although a few patients develop symptoms during their first decade, the disease typically manifests during the second decade of life,14,15 with the episodes worsening around puberty and persisting through life.15,16 Most attacks are triggered by trauma, medical procedures, emotional stress, menstruation, infections, or the use of medications such as ACE inhibitors or oral contraceptives.18–21 Dental interventions are of particular risk because they may induce angioedema of oral mucosa that expands to the upper airway with the risk of asphyxia.

In most cases, the episodes are preceded by a tingling, burning, or pain sensation in the involved area.22 Over the first 24 h, the swelling worsens slowly and then gradually subsides. Typical attacks of angioedema persist for 2–5 days before resolving spontaneously.14,16 This is one of the classical signs that distinguish HAE from allergic angioedema, which resolves in <24 h. Another feature that aids in differential diagnosis is that the swelling of HAE is painful while allergic angioedema is usually pruriginous and may be accompanied by the typical erythematous-edematous lesions of urticaria. However, before and during acute attacks of HAE, patients may develop macular cutaneous lesions, usually described as slight redness of the cutaneous region, lines of redness, or red rings.22 It may be distinguished from urticaria because the dermal lesions associated with HAE are erythematous macules but not warm and pruritic erythema-edematous plaques.14,22 In summary, the diagnosis should be suspected in any patient who presents with recurrent angioedema lasting for more than 24 h in the absence of associated urticaria. Although most patients report a family history of angioedema, up to 25% have a de novo C1-INH mutation.23

Abdominal attacks

Abdominal episodes occur in most patients.15 They are caused by edema of the intestinal wall, resulting in varying degrees of intestinal obstruction. The resulting symptoms are painful abdominal cramps that can be severe, with nausea and vomiting. Diarrhea can also occur, particularly as the acute episode resolves.14 At clinical exploration, the abdomen is tender to palpation, usually without guarding. Gastrointestinal episodes may, however, be unaccompanied by cutaneous lesions, and because rebound tenderness may be present, the symptoms can be mistaken for an acute abdomen. Unnecessary abdominal surgery has been performed.14,16

Fortunately, fever and leukocytosis are unusual in episodes of HAE. For this reason, their presence during an attack in a patient diagnosed with HAE suggests that another process, such as infection or intra-abdominal disorder, may be the cause of the acute exacerbation.14 The abdominal attacks are less persistent than cutaneous lesions and usually subside within 12–24 h.14 In women, discrete abdominal episodes may also be confounded with dysmenorrhoea, mostly in those patients in which the attacks are triggered by menstruation.

Severe complications of HAE

The most severe complication of HAE is laryngeal edema. It is a frequent complication because more than half of patients have had at least one episode of laryngeal edema during their lifetime.15 Moreover, before the development of effective treatments that are currently available, <30% of patients died of asphyxiation.5,18 Tracheostomy can be lifesaving because the edema involving the upper airway typically occurs at or above the larynx. Asphyxiation has been documented in individuals as young as 4 weeks and as old as 78 years.5 Another potentially life-threatening complication of HAE is hypovolemic shock caused by a shift of fluids into the interstitium or peritoneal cavity during abdominal attacks.14,18,24 Cerebral edema caused by the acute HAE episode may produce migraine-like symptoms, transient ischemic attack,25,26 seizures, and hemiparesia.18,27,28

Treatment of HAE

First, patients with HAE must avoid the previously mentioned factors that may precipitate attacks. The aims in HAE acute attacks management consist of aborting an episode when a patient presents signs of an attack (on-demand treatment), avoiding an attack before triggers act (short-term prophylaxis), and, lastly, in a long-term manner applying treatment periodically to prevent symptoms (long-term prophylaxis) and even at the onset of the early signs of an attack (individual replacement therapy). Antihistamines, corticosteroids, and epinephrine are ineffective in the treatment of HAE.14

Long-term prophylaxis

Long-term prophylaxis is considered in patients who have more than one acute attack monthly.12,29,30 However, some authors consider that the risk of upper airway edema is high regardless of which organ system was involved in previous attacks or the number of previous episodes, and that long-term prophylaxis should also be considered in any patient with a previous history of acute lesions affecting any organ system.5,14

There are two types of drugs that significantly reduce the frequency of episodes of HAE. These include attenuated androgens (the 17α-alkylated androgens danazol and stanozolol) and antifibrinolytic agents (tranexamic acid and ɛ-aminocaproic acid). Although the two groups of agents have not been compared in randomized studies, attenuated androgens appear to be more effective.12,31–34

The usual starting dose of danazol is 200–600 mg daily.12,16,35 As soon as symptomatic control is achieved, the dosage is reduced to the minimum dose that suppresses the attacks. Doses as low as 200 mg every 2 or 3 days can be successful.36 Stanozolol is administered at a dosage of 4 mg 3 times daily. As soon as symptomatic control is achieved, the dose is reduced to 1–2 mg daily. In some patients, alternate-day administration of stanozolol is also effective.14 Attenuated androgens stimulate the production of C1-INH and increase serum levels of C1-INH, C4, and C2.32,37 However, the dose of attenuated androgens is best assessed based on the clinical response rather than in laboratory tests, as improvement may occur even when the C1-INH levels remain low.35

Side effects include increased seborrhea, acne, hair growth, deepening of the voice, decreased breast size, menstrual irregularities, decreased libido, weight gain, lipid abnormalities, and hypertension.12,14,30 Major adverse effects are hepatic necrosis, cholestasis, and hepatocellular adenomas.14,30,38–41 Several cases of danazol-associated hepatocellular carcinoma have also been reported.42–45 Stanozolol therapy seems to have fewer adverse effects than danazol therapy.14

In patients taking attenuated androgens, liver enzyme levels and serum lipid profiles should be monitored every 6–12 months. Because of the risk of liver adenoma or carcinoma, periodic abdominal ultrasonography is recommended.12,38,45 Attenuated androgens are contraindicated in pregnancy, lactation, prostate cancer, and childhood.12,14

Antifibrinolytic agents are considered less effective than attenuated androgens.14 However, because of the potential side effects of attenuated androgens (masculinization of the fetus, premature puberty, and premature closure of epiphyseal plates), antifibrinolytic drugs are considered as the first choice in pregnant women and children who require long-term prophylaxis.46,47 The usual dosage is 1 g twice daily (0.25 g twice daily to 1.5 g thrice daily) for tranexamic acid and 2 g thrice daily (1 g twice daily to 4 g thrice daily) for ɛ-aminocaproic acid.12,16 Tranexamic acid is more effective than ɛ-aminocaproic acid.12 Muscle cramps, myalgia, and increased serum creatine phosphokinase or aldolase levels secondary to rhabdomyolysis are potential side effects.14,16,36 Another possible adverse effect of antifibrinolytic agents is a potential risk of thrombosis.16 Liver and renal function and creatine phosphokinase levels should be monitored every 6 months, and eye pressure should be checked annually for the risk of glaucoma.12

Short-term prophylaxis

When a patient with HAE is expected to be exposed to a situation likely to trigger an attack, such as substantial dental intervention or surgical procedures, short-term prophylactic treatment is indicated. There are several options, including the administration of C1-INH 1 h before the provoking event (500–1500 U), 2 units of fresh-frozen plasma (FFP) administered 1–12 h before, or danazol at a dose of 200 mg orally 3 times a day for the 10 days prior to the provoking factor and 2–5 days after.12,48,49 For minor manipulation such as mild dental work, danazol is the most widely used. For intubation or major procedures, C1-INH concentrate is the first option.12

Short-term prophylaxis should also be considered before administration of intravenous radiologic contrast, streptokinase, or tissue plasminogen activators, because previous studies have suggested that these agents may decrease levels of CI-INH in these patients.14,50–52

Management of acute attacks

As has been discussed before, attacks in HAE patients produce swelling involving subcutaneous tissues in different locations. As upper respiratory swelling can be life-threatening and attacks can manifest in 20 min, an efficient treatment is needed.18

Under the pathophysiological point of view, there are two approaches to treat acute angioedema, including emergent therapies: to replace C1-INH and to inhibit bradykinin generation either by blocking the enzyme kallikrein or preventing the interaction of bradykinin with its receptor.53

Replacement therapy: FFP and C1-INH concentrates (viral transmission concerns)

C1-INH inactivates several different proteases such as factor XII and kallikrein in the contact system. Indeed, the lack of kallikrein-inhibitory activity in HAE patients was observed by Landerman and Donaldson in the early 1960s.54,55

With the fundamental observation that HAE patients were deficient in the plasma protein C1-INH, it seemed obvious to treat them by replacing the missing plasma protein. For such reason, FFP has been used in therapy of acute attacks in HAE and AAE patients. Jaffe et al reported the use of FFP 2 U (200 mL) 1–12 h before the triggering agent.48 Because the dose of 10 mL/kg of solvent or detergent-treated FFP has been usually used for coagulopathies, it was thought that it might work in C1-INH deficiency.49 Moreover, no other effective way of treatment was available in many countries, including the United States and Australia.56,57

Even though FFP is proven to be effective in short-term prophylaxis, its use in acute attacks may be dangerous, worsening swelling because FFP contains substrates other than C1-INH. Bradykinin, the main responsible agent for swelling, is released by cleavage of the high-molecular-weight kininogen, which is present in normal plasma. With the infusion of FFP, high-molecular-weight kininogen is provided along with C1-INH, potentially worsening the swelling. On the other hand, concerns regarding viral safety questions discourage their use when safer products are available.58,59

The lack of sufficient data to demonstrate FFP benefits prompted Prematta et al to perform a literature search from 1996, as well as a review of their own practice. The evidence found could not confirm the theory that FFP could exacerbate symptoms or precipitate an attack of HAE. On the contrary, it seemed safe and effective in surgical prophylaxis and treatment of acute attacks.57

C1-INH is a 104-kDa protein, which inhibits complement components, contact, and fibrinolytic.5 C1-INH concentrate is recommended as first-line therapy for the treatment of acute attacks of HAE and for short-term (and eventually long-term) prophylaxis in several consensus statements.5,7,49

The C1-INH concentrate is a more advantageous alternative compared with FFP. Although it is derived from human plasma with risk of infectious disease, beginning in the 1970s, efforts started in Europe to manufacture a more purified preparation of missing protein.60 The blood-borne contagious risk has been reduced by multiple viral inactivation and removal steps including cryoprecipitation, chromatography, and pasteurization; nanofiltration is added to a recently US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved C1-INH concentrate.

Another advantage of C1-INH is the faster way to replace the missing inhibitor due to a high concentration of the manufactured product: 1 unit of C1-INH preparation is equal to the amount of C1-INH in 1 mL of normal human plasma, which is equivalent to 270 mg or 2.5 μM/L of plasma.61 Finally, we can benefit from C1-INH concentrate because it can be kept at home by patients to be self-administered intravenously when needed, as has been done in some countries for years (after a rigorous training), or can be taken to the emergency room, avoiding unnecessary delays before treatment is started.62–64

Emphasizing viral safety, the use of human plasma-derived products is an ongoing concern of infectious transmission. More than 80% of patients treated with the partially purified C1-INH produced by Immuno Pharmaceuticals, Viena, in 1980 (brand name C1 Inactivator) were infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV), even though no patient was reported to be infected by human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). In 1986, pasteurization was introduced in the preparation of the product, but viral transmission could not be excluded, because one case of HCV was detected.65 Immuno Pharmaceuticals was sold to Baxter Pharmaceuticals, which in 2003 discontinued manufacturing C1 Inactivator.66

The plasma-derived C1-INH concentrate Berinert® P (CSL Behring, Marburg, Germany) has been used in Europe and Canada for more than 20 years, and a lot of postmarketing safety and tolerability experience is available. It was first licensed in Germany in 1985, and a similar nonpasteurized product had been previously approved also in Germany in 1979.61 It is obtained from human plasma and is subjected to rigorous pathogen safety measures, such as donor selection, testing of each single donation with sensitive and specific nucleic acid testing/polymerase chain reaction assay for hepatitis A virus, hepatitis B virus, HCV, HIV1, and human parvovirus B19, and pasteurization. Afterward, the product is purified by precipitation and chromatography, sterile filtrated, and lyophilized without preservatives. Since 2004, a new Berinert® P formulation has been developed, and the product can be stored without refrigeration at room temperature below 25°C.67 It is recommended to not shake it during the reconstitution process, as this will denature the protein. Administration should be via peripheral vein (usually over 10 min).

There have been no reports of viral transmission with the use of this plasma-derived product since its introduction in January 1985, and few adverse effects have been published. In fact, fewer than 30 events were reported from 1985 to 2003, of which only 10 were thought to be directly related to treatment by 100 million units dispensed. Associated adverse effects include anaphylactoid reactions (most probably related to too rapid or too low temperature administration), the formation of inhibitory antibodies, localized redness at the injection site, and general reactions such as fever, chills, and headaches.61

De Serres et al in a Berinert® P efficacy and safety review quotes a number of studies, some of which are commented on below.61 A series of 30 HAE patients under long-term prophylaxis receiving C1-INH concentrate twice or three times a week were checked in regard to viral transmission hepatitis A, B, C, G, and HIV, and no seroconversion was found.68

Bork and Barnstedt published 193 laryngeal edema cases treated with Berinert® P, and viral transmission was not reported.69

Agostoni and Cicardi, in a retrospective study on 235 HAE and AAE patients, reported 67 laryngeal and 15 abdominal attacks treated with infusions of 500–1500 U of different C1-INH concentrates, achieving regression of symptoms in 30–90 min, and found effects in only one case.29

The C1-INH Berinert® P was finally approved in September 2009 by the FDA for the treatment of acute abdominal and facial angioedema attacks in adolescents and adults with HAE.70

A nanofiltered C1-INH concentrate (Cinryze®) has been recently developed. Along with pasteurization, it is double-nanofiltered with the use of 15-nm filters, increasing safety by size exclusion, particularly regarding nonenveloped viruses and prions.

Pharmacokinetics of C1-INH concentrates

Martinez-Saguer et al investigated the pharmacokinetics of pasteurized human plasma-derived C1-INH concentrate (Berinert® P) in children and adults receiving on-demand treatment (in acute attacks) as well as in adults receiving individual replacement therapy (administered at the onset of the early signs of an attack) as a home therapy.

The mean time to achieve maximum plasma activity after administration was 0.5 h in adults receiving individual replacement therapy, 1 h in adults receiving on-demand therapy, and 0.6 h in children. Clearance was 1.1 and 1 mL/kg/h for children and adults, respectively. The volume of distribution at steady state was 50 and 56.7 mL/kg for children and adults, respectively. Although the mean doses applied were similar between groups, the reported mean half-lives of plasma C1-INH were 31.5 h in children, 33.3 h in adults receiving replacement therapy, and 47.8 h in adults under on-demand therapy. The difference in half-life of adults receiving on-demand treatment compared with adults receiving individual replacement therapy reached significance. The authors argue that patients with a high frequency of severe attacks (as were patients receiving individual replacement therapy) presented a higher turnover of plasmatic C1-INH concentrate, with increased catabolic rate and shorter half-life.71 The investigation was during an attack-free interval over 72 h, whereas the Kunschak et al study (performed with a different plasma-derived concentrate) of patients having an acute attack over 24 h reported a similar mean half-life (37.9 h).72

Besides multiple descriptions of the use of Berinert® P in surgical prophylaxis at 500–1000 U before the procedure, Lehmann et al reported a successful administration of 1000 U before and 500 U every 6 h in a patient receiving coronary artery bypass graft surgery.73

Alvarez published the use of a different concentrate (C1-INH TIM3, Baxter Healthcare, Deerfield, IL, USA) in an HAE patient requiring coronary bypass surgery. The patient received 1000 U 1 h before surgery and 1000 U 1 h before extubation (7 h after operation), and the uncontrolled complement activation was avoided.74

Martinez-Saguer et al reported an uneventful continuous infusion of Berinert® P during surgery in three cases, receiving 1000 U each, followed by 0.5–1 U/kg body weight.75

In a recently completed study with Berinert® P, I.M.P.A.C.T.1, pharmacokinetic results in the treatment of acute attacks have been 32.7 h for half-life, 0.43 dL/kg for volume of distribution, and 0.92 mL/kg/h for clearance. Results were obtained from samples extracted after acute abdominal and facial attacks,76 in contrast to the Martinez-Saguer et al investigation, with samples obtained during the attack-free intervals.71

In studies done in a recombinant human C1-INH (rC1-INH) concentrate, the half-life was dose dependent, and at 100 U/kg body weight it was estimated to be 3 h. Although it is very similar to plasma-derived C1-INH, rC1-INH is heavily glycosylated, which affects the half-life of this agent while not affecting its functional activity.77

Efficacy of C1-INH concentrates

In 1980, two pilot experiences with C1-INH concentrate (other than Berinert® P) in 13 and 8 HAE patients, respectively, were published with very good results.78,79 However, it was not until 16 years later when the first double-blind clinical trial came out. Meanwhile, multiple experiences with C1-INH concentrate were described by De Serres et al.61

First double-blind study of plasma-derived C1-INH

In 1996, the first double-blind study of C1-INH (Immuno Pharmaceuticals, Vienna, Austria) purified from plasma (vapor heated) was reported, with patients with severe attacks receiving treatment every 3 days. The results showed a fast increase in blood C1-INH (mean 85% of normal values) and a slower increase in C4 levels after the infusion of concentrate. In placebo-treated patients, neither the level of circulating C1-INH nor the C4 level changed. The mean levels of C1-INH 24 h after the infusion were <70% of normal, which fell to 48% after 72 h.

The HAE symptoms decreased in the treatment group (60% less in the scores for extremities, larynx, abdomen, and genitourinary tract edema). In the study group, a clinical response was noted within 30 min after most infusions of C1-INH (75%), when compared with many hours after the infusions of placebo. In the treatment group, the larynx and abdomen swelling responded better than did the subcutaneous swelling of the extremities, as has been reported previously.80

The product tested was prepared by Immuno Pharmaceuticals, which was later sold to Baxter Pharmaceuticals. A phase III trial of the Immuno C1-INH concentrate (Baxter Healthcare) was performed several years ago for acute HAE attacks. However, it failed to show any improvement in C1-INH-treated patients compared with placebo-treated subjects. This result was likely due to the experimental design, which involved a 1-h crossover between C1-INH and placebo.53

Berinert® P studies

Bork reported 517 episodes of laryngeal edema in 42 patients, of which 18 patients received 500 or 1000 U of Berinert® P in 193 episodes. The therapy was effective in all laryngeal edemas.69

Recently, a double-blind, placebo-controlled, international, multicenter, prospective angioedema C1-INH trial (I.M.P.A.C.T.1) has been completed, which compared the efficacy (shortening onset of relief of symptoms) of Berinert® P at intravenous doses of 10 or 20 U/kg body weight with placebo in 125 patients with type I or II HAE with moderate to severe abdominal or facial attacks. Only single attacks were evaluated. After the start of the treatment, patients were observed for a minimum of 4 h. If no improvement was observed, they received a rescue medication, then the onset of symptom relief was set to 24 h.

Subjects receiving 20 U/kg body weight presented a significant reduction in the median time to onset of relief of symptoms compared with the placebo group (0.5 versus 1.5 h, P = 0.0025). Median time to complete resolution of all HAE symptoms was also significantly shorter in the 20 U/kg group compared with the control group (4.92 versus 7.79 h, P = 0.0237). At a dose of 10 U/kg, the median time to onset of relief was 1.2 h, which was not significantly different from the placebo group.

Most patients (87.1%) had type I HAE. Overall, 79% suffered abdominal attacks and 20.2% suffered facial attacks. There was no statistical difference between facial and abdominal attack treatment effect, although the median time to onset of symptom relief was shorter for abdominal attacks. In the same way, the efficacy was higher for severe than for moderate attacks, but any difference could not be demonstrated statistically (Table 3). In patients treated with C1-INH 20 U/kg, no new attacks were suffered before the complete resolution of the previous attack; therefore, rebound angioedema seems not to exist.

Table 3

Efficacy of Berinert® P at intravenous doses of 10 or 20 U/kg body weight versus placebo in 125 patients with type I or II HAE with moderate to severe abdominal to facial attacks. I.M.P.A.C.T.1 study

Statistics	C1-INH 10 U/kg	C1-INH 20 U/kg	Placebo	P 20 U/kg versus placebo	P 20 U/kg versus 10 U/kg
Overall median time to onset of symptoms relief	1.2 h	0.5 h	1.5 h	0.0025	0.0048
Overall median time to complete resolution of symptoms	20 h	4.9 h	7.8 h	0.0237	–
Abdominal attacks: median time to onset of symptoms relief	1.17 h	0.5 h	1.25 h	NSS	–
Facial attacks: median time to onset of symptoms relief	1.32 h	0.92 h	24 h		–
Severe attacks: median time to onset of symptoms relief	1.35 h	0.5 h	13.5 h	NSS	–
Moderate attacks: median time to onset of symptoms relief	1.13 h	0.78 h	1.33 h		–
Patients receiving rescue study medication	33.3%	18.6%	57.1%	–	–
Adverse events within 4 h after starting treatment	25.6%	19.6%	43.9%	–	–

Notes: If a patient received rescue medication, time to onset of symptom relief was set at 24 h. Overall median time to onset of symptoms relief P value 10 U/kg versus placebo = 0.2731.

Abbreviations: HAE, hereditary angioedema; C1-INH, C1-inhibitor; angioedema; NSS, no statistical significance.

Viral safety and adverse events were monitored up to 12 weeks after treatment. No seroconversions were observed for HIV, hepatitis virus, or human B19 virus. No serious adverse events were reported within 4 h after study treatment. Later, four patients had nine episodes of HAE exacerbation.81

The lack of statistical significance for C1-INH 10 U/kg versus placebo related to onset of relief is surprising after 25 years of experience using the same or lower doses with good results.

A prospective, open-label trial, I.M.P.A.C.T.2, showed a median time to onset of symptom relief of 15 min for laryngeal attacks, 20 min for abdominal attacks, 28 min for facial attacks, and 31 min for peripheral attacks. These results were based on treatment with 20 U/kg of C1-INH in 975 episodes of HAE attacks at any body location in 57 patients. No serious adverse events were reported.82

Nanofiltered C1-INH concentrate: Cinryze formerly Cetor

The Red Cross in Amsterdam (currently Sanquin Plasma Product) developed in 1974 the first large-scale method to prepare C1-INH. A viral inactivation step was added to the manufacturing process in 1986. The product, brand name Cetor®, has been in the Netherlands market since 1997, and it has been recently acquired by Lev Pharmaceuticals to be commercialized in the United States, adding to Cetor® a double-nanofiltration to enhance viral safety. The nanofiltered version of Cetor® is marketed in the United States under the brand name Cinryze®. It is manufactured by Sanquin in the Netherlands using US plasma.

Recently, Lev Pharmaceuticals has been acquired by ViroPharma Incorporated, a company specialized in commercializing products to treat inflammatory diseases. The company received FDA approval for Cinryze® in October 2008 for routine prophylaxis against attacks in adolescent and adult patients with HAE. It is not licensed for use in acute attacks of HAE in the United States. In June 2009, the FDA approved the patient labeling to include self-administration for routine prophylaxis, once patients are properly trained by their health care provider.

In March 2010, ViroPharma Incorporated announced the European approval request for both prevention and treatment of acute attacks of HAE as well as the initiation of two open-label, phase II studies: one to evaluate the safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of subcutaneous versus intravenous administration; the other with the aim to evaluate doses in children below 12 years of age with acute attacks.83

The results of two randomized trials of nanofiltered C1-INH concentrate for the management of HAE are reported. One study evaluates its use in acute attacks, and the other reports its use as prophylaxis. A total of 68 patients with severe attacks were randomly assigned to receive either C1-INH 1000 U intravenously (36 subjects) or placebo (35 subjects). If significant relief was not reported within 60 min, subjects were then given a second dose of the same study drug they received initially. The median time to beginning of unequivocal relief of symptoms was significantly shorter in the C1-INH group (median time 2 h) than in the placebo group (median time > 4 h) (P = 0.026). C1-INH-treated patients’ group also showed a statistically significant improvement in median time to complete resolution of symptoms (P = 0.004). The efficacy of the product did not vary by attack location.

The second study assessed the efficacy and safety of nanofiltered C1-INH concentrate as long-term prophylaxis to prevent attacks of angioedema. A total of 22 patients suffering from frequent attacks were treated with 1000 U of C1-INH or placebo twice a week during 12 weeks, then crossed over and received the opposite treatment for the same period. During the treatment periods, the frequency of attacks decreased in a significant manner (6.26 versus 12.73; P < 0.0001). It is stable at room temperature.84

Recombinant C1-INH: efficacy

Recombinant C1-INH (rC1-INH) conestat alfa (Rhucin®, Pharming Technologies BV, Leiden, the Netherlands) is a concentrate for intravenous infusion, produced in transgenic rabbits’ milk. It is identical to human plasma-derived C1-INH at the amino acid level and demonstrates the same inhibitory profile as plasma-derived C1-INH. Reports from van Doorn et al estimated that infusion of rC1-INH at doses of 100 U/kg resulted in a half-life of about 3 h.85

Choi et al in an open-label, phase II study of rC1-INH, demonstrated beginning of relief on average within 1 h (median time 30 min), with time to minimal symptoms between 6 and 12 h after infusion. No late angioedema relapses were found.86

Two phase III studies have been performed for rC1-INH in the treatment of acute attacks of angioedema in HAE patients. A European randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical study in 32 HAE patients treated with rC1-INH (100 U/kg) was conducted. It was stopped before completion for ethical reasons because there was a strong and highly significant positive difference for rC1-INH versus placebo in median time to beginning of relief (62 versus 508 min, P = 0.0009) as well as time to minimal symptoms (480 versus 1480 min, P = 0.0038).

The second phase III study was performed in the United States and Canada in 39 HAE subjects receiving rC1-INH (100 and 50 U/kg). The results exhibited a significant superiority for rC1-INH versus placebo in median time to beginning of relief (68 min for rC1-INH 100 U/kg, 122 min for 50 U/kg, and 258 min for placebo). Time to minimal symptoms was also significantly shortened after treatment with rC1-INH (245 min at 100 U/kg and 247 min at 50 U/kg, and 1101 min for placebo) (Table 4).

Table 4

Efficacy of recombinant C1-INH concentrate

Statistics	Phase II n = 9	Phase III European n = 32			Phase III United States and Canada n = 39
	100 U/kg	100 U/kg	Placebo	P	100 U/kg	50 U/kg	Placebo
Median time to initiation of relief	30 min	62 min	508 min	0.0009	68 min	122 min	258 min
Median time to minimal symptoms	6–12 h	480 min	1480 min	0.0038	245 min	247 min	1101 min

Abbreviation: C1-INH, C1-inhibitor.

There were no serious allergic or clinically relevant immune responses reported in either of the two studies, although there is a risk of anaphylactic reactions based on either contaminating rabbit proteins or the glycosylation differences.87

The nature of recombinant products eliminates concerns about potential viral infection transmission from plasma derivatives; another great advantage is that supply can be increased on demand.

The short half-life of the rC1-INH can make this product less convenient for prophylactic use, especially long-term prophylaxis.88

Conestat alfa concentrate is currently under review by the European Medicines Agency, as well as by the FDA. The product will be marketed in the European Union under the name Ruconest®.89

Treatment of acute attacks: inhibition of bradykinin generation blocking the enzyme kallikrein

Ecallantide (Kalbitor®, Dyax, Cambridge, MA, USA), a selective plasma kallikrein inhibitor, is a 60-amino acid peptide produced in the Pichia pastoris strain of yeast. It is available in the United States for the treatment of acute attacks of HAE in patients 16 years of age and older. The recommended dose of ecallantide to treat an angioedema attack is 30 mg, administered in three 10-mg subcutaneous injections. Maximum ecallantide levels are reached 2–3 h following administration, and the half-life is <2 h.90

Ecallantide was studied in two double-blind, randomized clinical trials that enrolled 143 individuals. Both studies were performed in the United States and involved subjects randomized 1:1 to receive ecallantide 30 mg or placebo during a moderate or acute attack at any location.

The first trial (EDEMA3) measured response to therapy in 72 patients using a categorical scale, treatment outcome score (TOS) at 4 h. Ecallantide-treated patients reported a mean TOS score of 49.5 ± 59.4 compared with 18.5 ± 67.8 in placebo-treated patients (P = 0.037). The improvement in TOS score was maintained at 24 h (44.3 ± 70.4 versus –0.5 ± 87.9, P = 0.044).

The second trial (EDEMA4) measured improvement of symptoms in 96 patients with the primary endpoint being mean symptom complex severity (MSCS) at 4 h. Ecallantide-treated subjects reported a mean decrease in symptom score at 4 h of 0.81 compared with a decrease of 0.37 in placebo-treated subjects (P = 0.01). At 24 h, mean symptom scores fell by 1.5 in the ecallantide-treated subjects compared with 1.1 in the placebo-treated subjects (P = 0.039).91

No differences were observed in the response to ecallantide based on the location of swelling; however, subjects who presented relatively late in the attack (6–8 h) showed less benefit than those who presented earlier.92

The overall safety profile of ecallantide observed in EDEMA4 was similar to that of the placebo. The most common treatment-emergent adverse events (nausea, headache, and dizziness) were mild or moderate and occurred at a similar proportion in both the ecallantide and placebo groups. No symptoms suggestive of hypersensitivity were reported in the treatment group. However, as anaphylactic-like reactions have been reported in some patients receiving the product, there is a black box warning of anaphylactic potential, requiring that the drug be administered by a health care provider. Out of refrigeration, it is stable for 14 days.91

Treatment of acute attacks: inhibition of bradykinin generation preventing its interaction with the receptor

Icatibant (Firazyr®, Jerini, Berlin, Germany) is a synthetic selective decapeptide bradykinin B2 receptor competitive antagonist that contains five nonnatural amino acids to enhance resistance to peptidases. Icatibant is administered subcutaneously as a single 30-mg injection, achieving peak concentration within 30 min, and has a half-life of 1–2 h.94 Icatibant (bradykinin B2 receptor inhibitor) is approved in Europe for acute treatment of HAE.

Icatibant was studied in two double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, phase III clinical trials,94 during moderate to severe abdominal or cutaneous angioedema attack, in subjects randomized 1:1. One study, FAST-1 compared icatibant with placebo in 56 subjects in different American countries; the second study, FAST-2, compared icatibant with tranexamic acid in 72 subjects in Europe and Israel. Primary endpoint was time to onset of symptom relief. In the FAST-2 study, time to onset of relief was significantly faster in the icatibant-treated group (2 versus 12 h, P < 0.0001). On the basis of this, the drug was approved for use for acute attacks in the European Union. In contrast, the FAST-1 study failed to show a significant benefit for icatibant (2.5 versus 4.6 h, P = 0.13). The drug was not approved by the FDA, and a new phase III trial is ongoing. The investigators of the FAST-1 suggest that this study did not reach statistical significance due to the stringent definition of the primary endpoint as well as the early use of rescue medication. Icatibant was generally well tolerated, although most patients had an injection-site reaction that was transient. Icatibant is stable at room temperature.

Subanalyses of these trials suggest that icatibant may be as effective for laryngeal swelling as for abdominal and cutaneous symptoms, with the time required for first symptom improvement being ≤1 h.95

The drug was also used in three acute abdominal attacks of HAE type III with rapid resolution of symptoms.96

A recent report suggested that the permeability enhancement in HAE attacks may be transduced by the combination of bradykinin B2 receptors and bradykinin B1 receptors. Bradykinin antagonists that block both bradykinin receptors may therefore have important advantages over those that only block the bradykinin B2 receptor.97

Summary of current therapeutic options in HAE acute attacks treatment

Replacement therapy

It was initially administered using FFP, but concerns arose with regard to the infectious risk and the controversial capacity to worsen attacks.57–59 The administration of C1-INH concentrates is a faster way to replace the missing protein. In plasma-derived concentrates, the risk of viral contamination has been greatly reduced by applying different viral inactivation and removal techniques. In Europe, plasma-derived C1-INH concentrates are being used to treat HAE attacks at a dose of 500–1500 U. The improvement is seen within 30–90 min.29,61,80,83 Their long half-life, mean 31.5–47.8 h, makes the product convenient also for prophylactic use.71,72,76

All C1-INH concentrates (plasma-derived and recombinant) are administered intravenously.

Two plasma-derived C1-INH concentrates have been licensed recently in the United States: Berinert® and Cinryze®.

Berinert® (CSL Behring) is a pasteurized C1-INH concentrate widely used in Europe and recently licensed by the FDA to treat acute abdominal and facial attacks in adolescent and adult HAE patients.70 Associated adverse effects (scarce despite its widespread use) include anaphylactoid reactions (most probably related to too rapid or too low temperature administration).61 The I.M.P.A.C.T.1 trial has shown Berinert® to be effective to treat acute angioedema attacks at a dose of 20 U/kg.81 In the I.M.P.A.C.T.2 trial, 20 U/kg showed a median time to onset of improvement of 15 min for laryngeal attacks, 20 min for abdominal attacks, 28 min for facial attacks, and 31 min for peripheral attacks.82 No serious adverse events were reported.81,82 The product can be stored at room temperature below 25°C.67

Cinryze® (ViroPharma Incorporated, Exton, PA, USA) is manufactured by the same process as the existing Cetor® from Sanquin but is double nanofiltered. It has recently been approved by the FDA for long-term prophylactic use only for adolescent and adults at a dose of 1000 U every 3 or 4 days. Although the product causes significant reductions in both the severity and the duration of HAE attacks, the approval for this indication is still pending. Subcutaneous administration is under trial. The tolerability of the product is good83 and is stable at room temperature.84

Rhucin® (Pharming Technologies BV), conestat alfa, is a recombinant C1-INH concentrate produced in transgenic rabbits’ milk. Its half-life is dose dependent, and at 100 U/kg body weight it is about 3 h.77 The product is currently under review by the FDA as well as by the European Medicines Agency (brand name Ruconest).89

The inhibition of bradykinin generation

Plasma kallikrein inhibitor, ecallantide (Kalbitor®, Dyax), is a 60-amino acid peptide recently approved in the United States for treatment of HAE in patients 16 years of age and older at a recommended dose of 30 mg, administered as three 10-mg subcutaneous injections. About 72.5% of patients treated with ecallantide reported significant improvement in symptoms within 4 h of administration. The half-life is about 2 h.90

It is not recommended for self-infusion because of anaphylactic-like reaction risk, and there is a black box warning regarding this potential. Ecallantide needs to be refrigerated for periods exceeding 14 days.91

Icatibant (Firazyr®, Jerini) is a small peptide bradykinin receptor blocker licensed in Europe for use in treatment of HAE attacks. Dose is 30 mg administered subcutaneously in adults. The time to first symptom improvement is ≤1 h.95 Its half-life is 1–2 h.94 Mild injection-site reactions are common. The product is stable at room temperature.95