Pulmonary edema

Alternative names:

lung water

Definition:

A condition characterized by fluid accumulation in the lungs caused by back pressure in the lung veins.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Pulmonary edema is a complication of a myocardial infarction (heart attack), cardiac dysfunction, mitral or aortic valve disease, exposure to high altitude (rare), or other disorders. Fluid overload is a common cause in infants.

Fluid backs up into the veins of the lungs. Increased pressure in these veins forces fluid out of the vein and into the air spaces (alveoli). This interferes with the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the alveoli.