Which term is defined as swelling caused by lymph fluid buildup?

Which term is defined as swelling caused by lymph fluid buildup?

• A. Mononucleosis
• B. Chronic fatigue syndrome
• C. Lymphedema
• D. Celiac disease

Answer: (C)

Lymphedema is swelling caused by lymph fluid buildup when the lymphatic system can’t effectively drain fluid from tissues. When drainage is impaired—due to damaged or blocked lymph vessels or nodes—protein-rich lymph accumulates in the interstitial space, often in a limb, leading to persistent swelling that can feel tight or thickened over time. This contrasts with other conditions listed: mononucleosis is a viral illness that causes fever and swollen lymph nodes and glands, chronic fatigue syndrome centers on prolonged fatigue without a specific infectious cause, and celiac disease is an autoimmune reaction to gluten affecting the gut. So, when swelling results from disrupted lymph drainage, the term you’re looking for is lymphedema.

Lymphedema is swelling caused by lymph fluid buildup when the lymphatic system can’t effectively drain fluid from tissues. When drainage is impaired—due to damaged or blocked lymph vessels or nodes—protein-rich lymph accumulates in the interstitial space, often in a limb, leading to persistent swelling that can feel tight or thickened over time. This contrasts with other conditions listed: mononucleosis is a viral illness that causes fever and swollen lymph nodes and glands, chronic fatigue syndrome centers on prolonged fatigue without a specific infectious cause, and celiac disease is an autoimmune reaction to gluten affecting the gut. So, when swelling results from disrupted lymph drainage, the term you’re looking for is lymphedema.