What is independent edema?

Independent edema

It is a clinical condition in which the hydrostatic and osmotic pressure in the capillaries of a tissue are normal, however the tissue is still edematous.

Causes

1. Increased capillary permeability to protein. This can occur due to several factors, including:

- Injury or inflammation

- Infection

- Allergic reactions

- Certain medications

2. Decreased lymphatic drainage. This can occur due to several factors, including:

- Compression of the lymphatic vessels by tumors or scarring

- Damage to the lymphatic vessels due to surgery or radiation therapy

- Congenital abnormalities of the lymphatic system

Symptoms

Independent edema can cause a variety of symptoms, including:

- Swelling of the affected tissue

- Pain

- Tenderness

- Warmth

- Redness

Treatment

The treatment of independent edema depends on the underlying cause. Treatment may include:

- Elevation of the affected limb

- Compression therapy

- Diuretics

- Antibiotics (if an infection is present)

- Surgery (in some cases)