Hereditary angioedema.

Although the condition is rare, patients with hereditary angioedema often present because of abdominal pain or airway compromise. A 27-year-old woman presented to the emergency department in acute abdominal distress. Identification of the disease in this patient allowed for proper management and avoidance of invasive procedures. Pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and therapy of hereditary angioedema are discussed.