Angioedema Acute Hypersensitivity Reaction to Injectable Hyaluronic Acid

BACKGROUND: Injectable hyaluronic acid was introduced to European markets in 1996 and has demonstrated a high safety profile. We describe the first reported case of angioedema-type hypersensitivity following injection of the upper lip with non-animal-stabilized hyaluronic acid (NASHA) gel. OBJECTIVE: To report a case and discuss a potential mechanism for and treatment of angioedema-type hypersensitivity following injection with NASHA gel into the upper lip. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Not applicable. RESULTS: Not applicable. CONCLUSION: Although injectable hyaluronic acid has a high safety profile, this reaction is dramatic. Treatments and potential mechanisms are discussed.