Pedal edema
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor-In-Chief: M.Umer Tariq [2]
Synonyms and keywords: Lower extremity edema, leg edema
Overview
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor-In-Chief: M.Umer Tariq [2]
Overview
Competent venous valves, intermittent leg muscle contraction and respiration is required to support normal venous blood return. When these fail, venous insufficiency and edema occur. Edema is caused by an accumulation of an excessive amount of watery fluid in the serous cavities, tissues or cells causing painless, non-reddened swelling.
Epidemiology and Demographics
25% of the general population suffers from chronic venous insufficiency.
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Successful treatment depends on control of the underlying cause. Severe swelling can cause permanent damage to nerves, resulting in peripheral neuropathy. Many cases from temporary or minor causes resolve on their own, with no lasting damage.
Diagnosis
Chest X Ray
Chest X-Ray may indicate pulmonary edema and/or cardiomegaly
Other Dianostic Studies
Liver biopsy are done for diagnosing cirrhosis
References
Historical Perspective
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References
Pathophysiology
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References
Causes
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-In-Chief: M.Umer Tariq [2]; Mugilan Poongkunran M.B.B.S
Overview
Pedal edema can be either pitting or non pitting. Peripheral pitting edema in which an indentation remains after pressure is released, is the more common type of peripheral edema, and results from water retention. It can be caused by systemic diseases, pregnancy in some women, heart failure, or local conditions such as varicose veins, thrombophlebitis, insect bites, and dermatitis. Non-pitting edema is observed when the indentation does not persist. It is associated with lymphedema, lipedema and myxedema. Edema caused by malnutrition defines kwashiorkor, an acute form of childhood protein-energy malnutrition characterized by edema, irritability, anorexia, ulcerating dermatoses, and an enlarged liver with fatty infiltrates.
Causes
Life Threatening Causes
Life-threatening causes include conditions which may result in death or permanent disability within 24 hours if left untreated.
- Anaphylaxis
- Bee sting
- Burns
- Carbon monoxide
- Crush syndrome
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Eclampsia
- Electric shock
- Gas gangrene
- Hereditary angioedema
- Malignant hyperthermia
- Metabolic poisons
- Mushroom poisoning
- Myocardial infarction
Common Causes
- Acute glomerulonephritis
- Calcium channel blockers
- Cellulitis
- Cirrhosis
- Congestive heart failure
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Diabetes
- Foot sprain
- Hormonal contraceptives
- Idiopathic
- Leg trauma
- Lymphedema
- Minoxidil
- Nephrotic syndrome
Causes by Organ System
Causes in Alphabetical Order
References
Differentiating Pedal Edema from other Diseases
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References
Epidemiology and Demographics
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor-In-Chief: M.Umer Tariq [2]
Overview
25% of the general population suffers from chronic venous insufficiency.
References
Risk Factors
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References
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor-In-Chief: M.Umer Tariq [2]
Overview
Successful treatment depends on control of the underlying cause. Severe swelling can cause permanent damage to nerves, resulting in peripheral neuropathy. Many cases from temporary or minor causes resolve on their own, with no lasting damage.
References
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms | Physical Examination | Laboratory Findings | Chest X Ray | CT | MRI | Echocardiography or Ultrasound | Other Imaging Findings | Other Diagnostic Studies
Treatment
Treatment
Medical Therapy | Surgery | Primary Prevention | Secondary Prevention | Cost-Effectiveness of Therapy | Future or Investigational Therapies
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