Bilateral leg swelling

Background

Mechanisms of Pedal Edema

• Increased hydrostatic pressure
• Decreased oncotic pressure
• Increased capillary permeability
• Lymphatic obstruction

Diagnosis

Pitting pedal edema

Work-Up

1. CBC
2. Chem 7
3. PT vs albumin (liver)
4. ECG
5. CXR
6. UA (nephrotic)

Differential Diagnosis

Differential Diagnosis of Pedal Edema

• Gravitational
• Venous insufufficiency/thrombophlebitis
• Drugs
  • NSAIDS
  • Birth control
  • Steroids
• CHF
• Lymphedema
• Pretibial myxedema