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MBBS QUESTION #10218
Question 1
A patient with chronic liver failure and hypoalbuminemia develops generalized peripheral edema. Using the Starling principle for capillary fluid exchange, $J_v = K_f[(P_c - P_i) - \sigma(\pi_c - \pi_i)]$, which change best explains this edema?
  • Decreased plasma (capillary) oncotic pressure ($\pi_c$) due to hypoalbuminemia✔️
  • Increased capillary hydrostatic pressure ($P_c$) alone
  • Decreased interstitial hydrostatic pressure ($P_i$) alone
  • Increased capillary filtration coefficient ($K_f$) alone
Correct Answer Explanation
Hypoalbuminemia lowers plasma oncotic pressure ($\pi_c$), the main force normally drawing fluid back into capillaries. With this opposing force reduced, net outward filtration increases at a given hydrostatic pressure, producing generalized (low-protein) edema — as seen in nephrotic syndrome and liver failure.