A 32-year-old man experiences sudden diffuse swelling of his lips and face following ingestion of a 1.5 pound steamed Maine lobster. Virtually no redness is associated with the swelling. This suggests which of the following?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Angioedema is characterized by sudden, severe swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and/or throat. It can be triggered by certain foods, including shellfish like lobster, in susceptible individuals. The lack of redness differentiates it from conditions that cause erythema (redness), such as erythema multiforme and Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Contact allergy typically results in localized redness and itching at the point of contact, and indigestion does not cause facial swelling.

A 32-Year-Old Man Experiences Sudden Diffuse Swelling of His Lips