Edema is excessive interstitial fluid retention causing tissue inflammation. Body has two compartments: intravascular and extravascular. Normal fluid balance is 1% leakage into extravascular compartment. Lymphatic system carries excess fluid back to intravascular compartment
Body fluids contain solutes, including proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and electrolytes. Water moves through semi-permeable membranes by osmosis. Body water content varies from 8% in teeth to 85% in brain
Nephrotic syndrome is characterized by proteinuria, low albumin, high lipids, and swelling. Proteinuria exceeds 3.5g/24h or 40mg/h/m2 in children. Hypoalbuminemia is below 2.5g/dL. Edema typically starts in face and legs, progressing to generalized swelling
Edema is medical term for swelling caused by fluid leakage into tissues. Can affect small areas or entire body. Small blood vessels leak fluid into nearby tissues
Loop diuretics reduce blood pressure and edema. They decrease intraocular pressure. They decrease free water and cerebral blood volume
Edema occurs when capillary filtration exceeds lymphatic drainage limits. Fluid balance between interstitial and intravascular spaces is regulated by capillary pressure