Angioedema is a hereditary or acquired disease characterized by localized non-pitting swelling of the subcutaneous tissue which can affect either skin or mucous membranes. Acquired angioedema can often be related to a heterogeneous group of etiological factors including physical stimuli, although up to 38% of cases remain idiopathic. We describe 5 patients who developed an angioedema following sun exposures. All patients reported an intensely stinging angioedema strictly limited to face and extremities, when exposed to solar light. Urticarial wheals were never observed or reported by patients, and oral antihistamines proved to be of no help in preventing or improving the condition of lesions. Laboratory and phototesting data allowed ruling out all other acquired or inherited diseases characterized by photosensitivity. We propose that solar angioedema should be considered a novel clinical entity.
Copyright © 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel.