LEG EDEMA - CLINICAL CLUES TO THE DIFFERENTIAL-DIAGNOSIS

Leg edema is a common problem in older patients, with a wide range of possible causes. The diagnosis can be narrowed by categorizing the ede ma according to its duration (acute or chronic), distribution (unilate ral or bilateral), and accompanying symptoms (such as dyspnea, pain, t hickening of skin, and pigmentation). The differential diagnosis inclu des systemic illnesses such as heart failure, liver disease, malnutrit ion, and thyroid disorder; local conditions such as pelvic tumors, inf ection, trauma,, and venous thrombosis; and various medications known to increase the risk of edema of the lower extremities. Appropriate th erapy is based on the presentation of edema and its identified cause.