According to a story from Rare Disease Report, a recent study indicates that the self-administration of Berinert, a drug used to treat hereditary angioedema, is effective and safe for patients and also improves their quality of life and overall confidence in the effectiveness of their treatment. This data was originally published in the Orphanet Journal of Rare Diseases.
Hereditary angioedema is a genetically linked disorder that is characterize by episodes of severe swelling that can affect the face, airway, arms, legs, and intestinal tract. There are three different types, all of which are caused by genetic mutations. While it is often inherited, the condition also occurs as a new mutation. Mutations result in a higher than normal amount of an inflammatory mediator called bradykinin, which promotes swelling. Bouts of swelling can last for several days and can often be triggered by stress or minor trauma. However, occasionally swelling occurs without an identifiable trigger. The disorder is generally noticed in childhood. Treatment involves attempting to prevent attacks and medications to address swelling episodes. Obstruction of the airway is the most urgent concern during attacks. To learn more about hereditary angioedema, click here.
Typically, when a patient experiences an acute episode of swelling, it often means being rushed to the hospital in order to receive prompt treatment. This can be a major burden for patients since attacks can occur without much or any prior warning. However, the data from this study, in which patients self-administered Berinert, could make this inconvenience a thing of the past. Self-administration can help patients in multiple ways. First off, it reduces the time between when a swelling episode begins and when treatment can begin. In addition, patients no longer have to worry about the associated expense of getting rushed to the hospital, which can be a major financial burden.
