Emergency Medical Minute

Contributor: Aaron Lessen, MD Educational Pearls: What is thrombolysis? Thrombolysis is performed by administration of a medication that promotes the body’s natural ability to break up clots. These medications include Alteplase (tPA) and Tenecteplase (TNK). The main side effect of using such an agent is bleeding which typically occurs at puncture sites but can also occur internally. However, an unusual side effect of thrombolytic agents, which occurs in about 1-5% of cases, is angioedema. What is angioedema? Angioedema is a medical condition that causes swelling beneath the surface of the skin, typically in the face, lips, and throat (orolingual angioedema). Fluid leaks from blood vessels and accumulates in the deeper layers of the skin. How are these two connected? The mechanism by which angioedema occurs after thrombolysis is not well understood, but it is likely connected to how tPA can increase levels of bradykinin and histamine. Swelling can appear suddenly but can also occur up to 24 hours