Oedema

Question 1

What equation has to be unequal for oedema to occur?

Answer 1

Starlings equation

Question 2

What is ascites ?

Answer 2

fluid collection in the abdomen

Question 3

Describe Transudates

Answer 3

• low protein content (therefore not permeability as protein can’t escape the vessel)
• usually bi lateral
• due to change in the forces acting in the vessel
• no change to the permeability of the vessel
• low gravity specific

Question 4

What can cause transudates?

Answer 4

cardiac failure
fluid overload
high BP

Question 5

Describe exudates

Answer 5

• high protein content
• usually uni lateral
• due to a change in the permeability of the membrane of the vessel
• proteins can leak out of the vessel, decreasing the oncotic pressure and hence pulling water out into the ECF and causes swelling and oedema
• high gravity specific

Question 6

What can cause exudates ?

Answer 6

acute inflammation
tumour formation
damage to the endothelium

Question 7

Name the six types of oedema and state which one is exudate

Answer 7

pulmonary oedema 
peripheral oedema 
lymphatic blockage 
abnormal renal function resulting in oedema 
low protein oedema 
permeability oedema - exudate

Question 8

What force increases in the majority of these types to cause oedema to form?

Answer 8

hydrostatic force

Question 9

What type of injury can cause exudates to form

Answer 9

a burn

Question 10

Give three examples which can cause low protein oedema

Answer 10

malnutrition 
hepatic cirrhosis (liver)
nephrotic syndrome (kidneys)

lower oncotic pressure so less water in pulled into the vessels

Question 11

What abnormal renal function would result in an increased hydrostatic force?

Answer 11

increased retention of salt which would increase the rate reabsorbed and increase the hydrostatic force