Why does bradykinin cause swelling?
Bradykinin plays the key role in the development of swelling in persons with bradykinin-mediated angioedema. Bradykinin, whose physiological function is similar to that of histamine, is produced in the body as a result of activation of the kallikrein-kinin system. The kallikrein-kinin system consists of a chain of different proteins in the blood which affect or control numerous processes and reactions in the body, including inflammation, coagulation, blood pressure and pain. Bradykinin causes a dilatation of the blood vessels and increases the permeability of the vascular wall. This allows increased amounts of fluid to pass from the blood vessel into the surrounding tissue. The result can be a non-pruritic (non-itching) swelling of the skin or mucous membranes.
