Carbamazepine-induced angioedema

Abstract

Angioedema is a rare adverse reaction of carbamazepine, which causes localized tissue edema in submucosal and subcutaneous tissue mediated by histamine, serotonin, and kinins (bradykinin). We report a case of 34-year-old female who developed angioedema, 24 h after administration of carbamazepine for treating bipolar disorder. Patient′s symptoms responded rapidly with antihistamine therapy and with the withdrawal of carbamazepine, the offending drug. Carbamazepine-induced angioedema is a life-threatening reaction which requires immediate treatment and monitoring in order to avoid morbidity and mortality.