Isolated periorbital angio-oedema induced by aspirin: a case report and review of the literature.

UNLABELLED: Periorbital angio-oedema may present as an isolated manifestation of aspirin intolerance and can be very alarming to the patient. This case describes a 38-year-old gentleman with such localized clinical features. Once considered an unusual phenomenon, review of the literature has revealed an increased frequency, possibly as a result of previous poor documentation. Clinical manifestations of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) intolerance, in particular periorbital angio-oedema and its associated symptoms, with proposed aetiology and pathogenesis, are discussed.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: With the wide use of this drug and other NSAIDs for the relief of painful and inflammatory dental and facial conditions, such localized manifestation of aspirin intolerance may present to the general dental practitioner and other dental specialties. Patients' medical history may reveal sensitivity to these groups of drugs, and in such cases, should be avoided and suitable alternatives provided.