APA Dictionary of Psychology

n. a disorder marked by recurrent episodes of noninflammatory swelling of certain body tissues, particularly the skin, mucous membranes, viscera, and central nervous system. The disorder may begin suddenly and last for hours or days, sometimes causing death. Attacks may be triggered by food or drug allergies, insect stings or bites, or viral infection, in most cases the cause is never known. A hereditary form may be associated with emotional stress. Also called angioneurotic edema; Quincke’s disease; Quincke’s edema.