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Peripheral edema is edema (accumulation of fluid causing swelling) in tissues perfused by the peripheral vascular system, usually in the lower limbs. In the most dependent parts of the body (those hanging distally ), it may be called dependent edema.
Edema may be described as pitting edema, or non-pitting edema. [32] Pitting edema is when, after pressure is applied to a small area, the indentation persists after the release of the pressure. Peripheral pitting edema, as shown in the illustration, is the more common type, resulting from water retention.
Lymphedema, also known as lymphoedema and lymphatic edema, is a condition of localized swelling caused by a compromised lymphatic system. [2] The lymphatic system functions as a critical portion of the body's immune system and returns interstitial fluid to the bloodstream .
Patients present with an acute onset of swelling, pain, erythema, prominent tenderness, warmness and limited range of motion in both ankles. [1] [2] Lower legs and heels may also be involved, however the distal parts of feet and toes are usually spared. Patients may also experience high-graded fever, pitting edema and hypotension.
It is characterized by progressive lower extremity edema distal to the thigh, tight shiny skin, cyanosis (inadequate blood oxygenation), petechiae or purpura, and sudden severe pain of the affected limb in proportion to the level of venous blockage. Patients often have difficulty walking.
Conservative treatment of isolated medial knee injuries (grades I-III) begins with controlling swelling and protecting the knee. Swelling is managed well with rest, ice, elevation, and compression wraps. [22] Protection can be performed using a hinged brace that stabilizes against varus and valgus stress but allows full flexion and extension.
The typical clinical picture is edema on the cheeks, auricles, and extremities along with purpuric skin lesions. [4] It has a violent onset, a brief and benign course, and recovers spontaneously after 1 to 3 weeks. [5] Mild fever has been reported in the majority of patients. [6]
Myxedema's characteristic physical sign is non-pitting edema, in contrast to pitting edema. [1] Myxedema can also occur in the lower leg (pretibial myxedema) and behind the eyes (exophthalmos). [citation needed] Severe cases, requiring hospitalization can exhibit signs of hypothermia, hypoglycemia, hypotension, respiratory depression, and coma.