Angiotensin II receptor blocker-induced angioedema in the oral floor and epiglottis.

We report the rare case of angioedema (also known as Quincke edema), which was induced by valsartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). ARBs are a new class of antihypertensive agent that is developed to exclude the adverse effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors. In theory, ARBs do not contribute to the occurrence of angioedema because they do not increase the serum level of bradykinin, the responsible substance for angioedema. However, some reports of ARB-induced angioedema have recently been published. In this study, we present the forth case and the first Asian case of angioedema due to valsartan, which is one of the ARBs. Otolaryngologist should be wary of the prescribing ARB and discontinue ARBs treatment soon, if angioedema is recognized.