Identify the incorrect statement regarding the fundamental causes of edema. Multiple Choice Capillary reabsorption does not depend on oncotic pressure. A deficiency of albumin (hypoproteinemia) produces edema by reducing the reabsorption of tissue fluid. Kidney failure leads to water retention and hypertension, thus raising capillary blood pressure and filtration rate. Obstruction of lymphatic vessels can interfere with fluid drainage and lead to the accumulation of tissue fluid distal to the obstruction. Since albumin is produced by the liver, liver diseases, such as cirrhosis, tend to lead to hypoproteinemia and edema.

Edema refers to the swelling caused by the fluids trapped in the body's tissues, which swell from injury and/or inflammation. Edema can be associated with the decrease in plasma oncotic pressure, i.e., osmotic pressure exerted by proteins (especially albumin) in the blood vessel's plasma, the increase in hydrostatic pressure, or the increase in the capillary permeability. Moreover, capillary reabsorption refers to the movement of fluid from interstitial space to the capillaries, which is driven by the blood colloidal osmotic pressure. Lymphatic obstruction, i.e., the blockage of the lymph vessels that drain fluids from tissues, may cause edema in the part that is drained by the affected vessels (it is known as lymphedema). Moreover, liver/kidney failure may lead to edema by decreasing albumin and oncotic pressure. When plasma albumin levels drop because of liver diseases, the colloid osmotic pressure also decreases. In consequence, liver diseases, including stage 3 cirrhosis, lead to the development of swelling in the abdomen, thereby leading to edema.