Anatomy Practice Exam

Edema is characterized by an excess accumulation of fluid in the interstitial spaces of tissues, leading to swelling. The condition can occur due to several underlying factors that disrupt the balance of fluid in the body, such as increased capillary permeability, obstruction of lymphatic drainage, or increased hydrostatic pressure. When excessive fluid accumulates, it overwhelms the body's ability to reabsorb it, resulting in noticeable swelling in areas like the legs, arms, and abdomen.

While excessive exercise might lead to temporary swelling due to increased blood flow and fluid retention, it is not a direct cause of edema. Fluid deficiency contradicts the definition of edema, as a lack of fluid would not lead to swelling. Hormonal imbalances can indeed affect fluid retention and distribution but do not directly lead to edema in the same way that an accumulation of excess fluid does.

Therefore, the correct choice highlights that edema is fundamentally a symptom of excessive fluid accumulation, reflecting changes or disruptions in the body's fluid management.