Oedema in childhood

Oedema is a common childhood problem with important public health implicati ons. It is an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the interstitial space whic h might result from a decrease in intravascular oncotic pressure, an increa se in intravascular hydrostatic pressure, an increase in capillary: permeab ility or impaired lymphatic drainage. Renal sodium retention is an importan t factor in generalised oedema. This article reviews the pathophysiology an d aetiology of oedema in children and suggests an approach to evaluation, d iagnosis and management of the problem.