Myxedema edema is typically non-pitting and occurs around which areas?

Myxedema edema is typically non-pitting and occurs around which areas?

• A. Ankles and calves
• B. Abdomen and thighs
• C. Scalp and neck
• D. Eyes, hands, and feet

Answer: (D)

In myxedema from hypothyroidism, the edema is due to accumulation of mucopolysaccharides in the dermis, which causes thickened, water-laden interstitial tissue. This produces non-pitting edema, meaning pressing on the swollen area doesn’t leave a lasting indentation. The classic sites are the face—especially around the eyes (periorbital area)—and the distal extremities, including the hands and feet. Edema in other areas like ankles, calves, abdomen, or thighs tends to be pitting and is not the characteristic pattern of myxedema. So the correct areas are around the eyes, hands, and feet.

In myxedema from hypothyroidism, the edema is due to accumulation of mucopolysaccharides in the dermis, which causes thickened, water-laden interstitial tissue. This produces non-pitting edema, meaning pressing on the swollen area doesn’t leave a lasting indentation. The classic sites are the face—especially around the eyes (periorbital area)—and the distal extremities, including the hands and feet. Edema in other areas like ankles, calves, abdomen, or thighs tends to be pitting and is not the characteristic pattern of myxedema. So the correct areas are around the eyes, hands, and feet.