Fluid, Electrolytes, and Acid-Base Imbalances

2. Identify the four general causes of edema, and explain how each one results in accumulation of fluid in the extracellular compartment. Causes of Edema: 1. increased capillary hydrostatic pressure, forcing excessive amounts of fluid out and prevents return of fluid from the interstitial compartment. 2. loss of plasma proteins, reducing plasma osmotic pressure. 3. obstruction of lymphatic circulation, restricting the return of excess fluid and protein to the general circulation. 4. increased capillary permeability—as in inflammation, resulting in fluid and protein movement into the interstitial compartment. 3. For each of the following examples, state which of the causes identified in the previous question is responsible for edema formation: