Which condition results from blockage of lymph channels causing swelling due to interstitial fluid accumulation?

Which condition results from blockage of lymph channels causing swelling due to interstitial fluid accumulation?

• A. Edema
• B. Lymphedema
• C. Cellulitis
• D. Varicosity

Answer: (B)

Blockage of lymph channels prevents normal drainage of interstitial fluid, causing accumulation of protein-rich fluid in the interstitium. This leads to swelling called lymphedema. The key idea is that the edema results from impaired lymphatic drainage rather than from venous pressure or low plasma protein. Over time, chronic lymphatic obstruction can cause tissue fibrosis and skin changes. In contrast, cellulitis is an infection with warmth, redness, and systemic signs; varicosities are due to venous dilation and venous hypertension, not lymphatic blockage; general edema can have many other causes.

Blockage of lymph channels prevents normal drainage of interstitial fluid, causing accumulation of protein-rich fluid in the interstitium. This leads to swelling called lymphedema. The key idea is that the edema results from impaired lymphatic drainage rather than from venous pressure or low plasma protein. Over time, chronic lymphatic obstruction can cause tissue fibrosis and skin changes. In contrast, cellulitis is an infection with warmth, redness, and systemic signs; varicosities are due to venous dilation and venous hypertension, not lymphatic blockage; general edema can have many other causes.