Pediatrics
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The family history is a critical element in pediatric medicine and represents the gateway to the molecular age of medicine for both pediatric clinicians and their patients. The pediatric clinician has several opportunities to obtain a family history and multiple clinical and educational uses for that information. Available methods include paper and digital forms, classical pedigrees, online programs, and focused family history at the time of a new diagnosis or problem. ⋯ The family history can be used in many facets of pediatric practice: (1) as a diagnostic tool and guide to testing and evaluation; (2) to identify patterns of inheritance; and (3) as a patient-education tool. The most exciting future use of family history is as a tool for public health and preventive medicine. More accurately identifying children at risk for common chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma, and cardiovascular disease could change the primary care clinician's approach to pediatric medicine.
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Hereditary angioneurotic edema is a rare disorder caused by the congenital deficiency of C1 inhibitor. Recurring angioedematous paroxysms that most commonly involve the subcutis (eg, extremities, face, trunk, and genitals) or the submucosa (eg, intestines and larynx) are the hallmarks of hereditary angioneurotic edema. ⋯ Although a variety of reviews have been published during the last 3 decades on the general management of hereditary angioneurotic edema, little has been published regarding management of pediatric hereditary angioneurotic edema. Thus, we review our experience and published data to provide an approach to hereditary angioneurotic edema in childhood.