Hemodynamic disorders: edema: practice question

A Pathology question in the style of the NEET PG paper. Answer it first, then read why the right option is right and why each of the others is wrong.

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Pathology · Hemodynamic disorders: edema

Sample item

Which mechanism most directly causes edema in nephrotic syndrome?

Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.

The answer and the reasoning

D. Reduced plasma oncotic pressure from hypoalbuminemia

Heavy urinary protein loss lowers plasma albumin and oncotic pressure, allowing fluid to move into interstitial tissues. Sodium retention can further worsen edema.

Option by option

  • A. Raised red-cell mass

    Raised red-cell mass does not cause this fluid shift.

  • B. Arteriolar vasoconstriction only

    Vasoconstriction alone does not explain nephrotic edema.

  • C. Increased lymphatic drainage

    Increased lymphatic drainage would reduce edema.

  • D. Reduced plasma oncotic pressure from hypoalbuminemia (correct)

    Correct. Low oncotic pressure is the primary Starling-force abnormality.

Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.

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Questions about this Pathology question

What is the answer to this Pathology question?

The best answer is D, Reduced plasma oncotic pressure from hypoalbuminemia. Heavy urinary protein loss lowers plasma albumin and oncotic pressure, allowing fluid to move into interstitial tissues.

Why is "Raised red-cell mass" not the answer?

Raised red-cell mass does not cause this fluid shift.

Why is "Arteriolar vasoconstriction only" not the answer?

Vasoconstriction alone does not explain nephrotic edema.

Why is "Increased lymphatic drainage" not the answer?

Increased lymphatic drainage would reduce edema.

What concept does this question test?

It tests Hemodynamic disorders: edema in Pathology. Sodium retention can further worsen edema.

How hard is this question?

We tag it as an application question: it asks you to use a fact on a patient or a finding. The tag is our own editorial judgement, not an official difficulty rating, so read the reason for every option, not only the answer.

How should I study Hemodynamic disorders: edema?

Learn each disease as a bundle: cause, key histology, markers, and the clinical hallmark. Then use the flashcards and the other Pathology questions on this site to test what stuck.

Is this a real NEET PG question?

No. It is an original practice item (editorial status: sample, version 1). NextPrep does not publish recalled or leaked questions, and independent faculty review of this item has not been completed yet, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.