aetiology

Last reviewed 01/2018

Causes of generalized oedema include:

  • increased venous pressure e.g. right cardiac failure

  • reduced intravascular oncotic pressure e.g. hypoalbuminaemia
    • liver cirrhosis
    • nephrotic syndrome

  • renal failure - this may result in generalised oedema
    • impaired sodium excretion

Other possible causes include:

  • pregnancy or other pelvic mass
  • hypothyroidism
  • angioneurotic oedema
  • steroid therapy
  • starvation: particularly on refeeding