medical Definition of angioedema
plural angioedemas
also angioedemata
play
\-mət-ə\
: an acute or chronic disorder that affects the mucous membranes and deepest layers of the skin along with underlying tissue and that is marked by rapid swelling, large welts, and pain
Note:
Swelling results from a buildup of fluid leaking out of blood vessels with walls that have become abnormally permeable. The lips, mouth, throat, eyes, hands, and feet are most commonly affected. Swelling of the throat may interfere with breathing and can be life-threatening. Angioedema may be caused by an allergic reaction (as to food or drugs), is sometimes due to a hereditary condition (
hereditary angioedema
), but is often of unknown cause.
— called also
angioneurotic edema, giant urticaria, Quincke's disease, Quincke's edema 
