Which of the following conditions could be associated with edema?

• A. Liver disease, diabetes, lung cancer
• B. Cirrhosis, alcoholism, renal failure
• C. Congestive heart failure, alcoholism, renal failure
• D. Heart attack, hypertension, A.I.D.S.

Answer: (C)

The correct answer highlights conditions that are directly linked with the development of edema, which is the abnormal accumulation of fluid in the interstitial spaces of tissues. Congestive heart failure leads to fluid backing up in the circulatory system, resulting in increased pressure that causes fluid to leak into surrounding tissues, promoting edema.

Alcoholism can contribute to edema through liver damage, which disrupts normal fluid regulation and can cause both liver disease and the resultant fluid accumulation. Renal failure further compounds the situation because the kidneys play a crucial role in regulating fluid balance; when they are not functioning properly, the body can retain excessive fluid, leading to edema.

In contrast, liver disease and diabetes, while they can cause various complications, are not as directly associated with generalized edema when compared to congestive heart failure and kidney issues. Furthermore, while conditions like hypertension may contribute to heart issues, they do not inherently lead to edema in the same direct way as the specified conditions.

Thus, the correct conditions listed provide a clear and direct pathway to understanding how edema can develop, emphasizing the interplay of heart and kidney function in fluid retention and distribution.