Excess accumulation of fluid in the corneal epithelium.
Excess accumulation of water in the body, particularly in the periphery; also called dropsy or hydrops. A condition of disordered water balance. It usually occurs secondary to a primary disease. In this condition, water is accumulated in the tissues distal to the kidneys. Urine volume is very low and highly concentrated. As the fluids in the extracellular compartment increase, the functionality of the patient decreases. At first, the edema is noted in the extremities. Feet, ankles, legs, and hands become swollen, then, noticeably, there is an accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity and in the pericardial sac. This fluid accumulation makes it difficult for the patient to walk and, eventually, interferes with the vital functions of the internal organs such as the heart.