Glomerulonephritis and Nephrotic Syndrome · NCLEX Exam

A student asks why a patient with nephrotic syndrome develops generalized edema. The best explanation is?

  1. Increased oncotic pressure from hypoalbuminaemia
  2. Decreased plasma oncotic pressure increases capillary filtration
  3. Decreased aldosterone causing renal sodium loss
  4. Loss of free water producing dehydration and swelling
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Decreased plasma oncotic pressure increases capillary filtration

Loss of albumin lowers plasma oncotic pressure, causing fluid to shift into interstitial space, thereby causing edema.

Difficulty: Medium Question 5 of 15

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