What is the term for pitting edema located in the arms and ankles?

Prepare for the TMC Respiratory Care Boards Exam. Engage with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Boost your readiness for the test!

The term for pitting edema located specifically in the arms and ankles is peripheral edema. This condition refers to the buildup of fluid in the tissues of the extremities, often caused by a range of factors including heart failure, kidney disease, or other medical conditions that affect fluid balance in the body. Peripheral edema is characterized by its occurrence in the distal parts of the body, such as the arms and legs, and is identified by a pitting quality when pressure is applied to the swollen area.

In contrast, clubbing refers to an enlargement of the ends of the fingers or toes typically associated with chronic respiratory or cardiac conditions, which is not related to pitting edema. Venous distention indicates increased pressure in the venous system and is more associated with the visibility of veins rather than the fluid accumulation in tissues, while fluid accumulation is a more general term and does not specifically refer to the localized edema seen in peripheral edema.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy