What Does Edema Mean?
eh-DEE-mah
IPA: /ɪˈdiː.mə/
eh
DEE
mah
Edema is pronounced eh-DEE-mah
What does Edema mean?
Edema is the accumulation of excess fluid in the interstitial spaces of body tissues, causing swelling.
How do you pronounce Edema?
Edema is pronounced "eh-DEE-mah". Syllables: eh - dee - mah.
When is Edema used in medicine?
Pitting edema in dependent areas (ankles, sacrum) indicates fluid overload from heart failure or venous insufficiency. Non-pitting edema suggests lymphedema or myxedema.
Word Parts & Etymology
Greek rootoidemaswelling, tumor
Common Misconceptions
Not all leg swelling is cardiac. DVT, cellulitis, venous insufficiency, and hypoalbuminemia all cause edema. The distribution and characteristics guide the diagnosis.
Clinical Context
Pitting edema in dependent areas (ankles, sacrum) indicates fluid overload from heart failure or venous insufficiency. Non-pitting edema suggests lymphedema or myxedema.
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