Which term describes severe pedal edema that leaves a dent or pit in the skin when you press on it?

Which term describes severe pedal edema that leaves a dent or pit in the skin when you press on it?

• A. Pitting edema
• B. Pedal
• C. Permeability
• D. Placebo

Answer: (A)

Pitting edema is the term described here. When fluid accumulates in the tissues (interstitial space), pressing on the swollen area causes the skin to indent, or pit, and the dent remains for a moment before the tissue rebounds. This pulling sensation and visible indentation are the hallmark of pitting edema, which is often seen in the feet or legs when fluid shifts to dependent areas (pedal edema). The depth and duration of the pit can help gauge severity. In contrast, non-pitting edema does not leave a dent because the tissue resists indentation, permeability refers to how easily fluid leaks out of vessels, and pedal simply describes the location.

Pitting edema is the term described here. When fluid accumulates in the tissues (interstitial space), pressing on the swollen area causes the skin to indent, or pit, and the dent remains for a moment before the tissue rebounds. This pulling sensation and visible indentation are the hallmark of pitting edema, which is often seen in the feet or legs when fluid shifts to dependent areas (pedal edema). The depth and duration of the pit can help gauge severity. In contrast, non-pitting edema does not leave a dent because the tissue resists indentation, permeability refers to how easily fluid leaks out of vessels, and pedal simply describes the location.