Peripheral oedema

Peripheral oedema is a palpable swelling caused by increased interstitial fluid in soft tissues, and can be due to local or systemic disease. Fluid distribution between capillaries and the interstitium is governed by Starling forces. The lymphatic system returns excess fluid and protein from the extracellular, interstitial space to the bloodstream. Thus, interstitial oedema may arise from factors that increase capillary pressure or permeability, factors that reduce plasma colloid osmotic pressure, factors that impede lymphatic drainage, or a combination of these causes. This topic addresses the diagnosis of peripheral oedema.