Edema from low plasma albumin
A patient with advanced liver disease has low plasma albumin and swollen ankles. What is the main mechanism of the swelling?
Answer C: explanation for every choice
A
Higher oncotic pressure would draw fluid into the vessels, not out.
B
Lower hydrostatic pressure would reduce, not increase, filtration.
C
Correct. Albumin maintains the oncotic pressure that draws fluid back into capillaries. With less albumin, fluid stays in the tissues.
D
More lymph drainage would reduce edema.
TakeawayLow albumin → low oncotic pressure → edema.
Next question →
Reviewed 2026-11-05 by a medical student. Spot an error? Report it with question ID bb143.