Multisystem: Shock, Sepsis and Metabolic Syndromes · USMLE Step 1

A patient with severe burns develops profound edema. Which mechanism explains this fluid shift?

  1. Reduced hydrostatic pressure
  2. Increased capillary permeability
  3. Increased plasma oncotic pressure
  4. Decreased interstitial oncotic pressure
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: Increased capillary permeability

Burn injury increases capillary permeability, allowing plasma proteins and fluid to leak into interstitial spaces. This causes significant edema.

Difficulty: Medium Question 17 of 19

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