Pitting Edema on Physical Exam

Pitting edema is often diagnosed with a physical exam. The doctor may apply pressure to the swollen skin to check for lasting indentation. ... To properly identify the underlying cause, a doctor may take a detailed medical history and ask about medications.

Edema occurs when fluid that accumulates in tissues leads to swelling. When pressure is applied to a swollen area, it may leave a pit, in the skin.

In non-pitting edema, the skin will return to its swollen shape once the pressure has been removed.



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