An unusual cause of abdominal pain and hypotension: angioedema of the bowel

J Emerg Med. 2009 Jan;36(1):23-5. doi: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2007.06.013. Epub 2007 Oct 25.

Abstract

We report a case of a 50-year-old man who presented with abdominal pain and shock due to an allergic angioedema of the bowel resulting from the use of a common class of anti-hypertensive medication. After initial stabilization, a computed tomography (CT) scan was performed that documented characteristic findings and saved the patient from an unnecessary laparotomy. Although rare, this etiology of abdominal pain and hypotension should be considered as more and more individuals are taking angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Pain / etiology*
  • Angioedema / diagnosis
  • Angioedema / etiology*
  • Angioedema / pathology
  • Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Ileum / blood supply
  • Ileum / diagnostic imaging
  • Jejunum / blood supply
  • Jejunum / diagnostic imaging
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Splanchnic Circulation
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed

Substances

  • Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors