What is the term used for swelling caused by excess fluid in tissues?

The term used for swelling caused by excess fluid in tissues is edema. This condition occurs when there is an imbalance in the body's fluid regulation mechanisms, leading to the accumulation of interstitial fluid. Edema can arise from various factors, including inflammation, injury, or medical conditions affecting the heart, kidneys, or liver.

Understanding the nature of edema is essential in clinical settings, as it often indicates underlying issues that may require further investigation or treatment. For instance, in cases of heart failure, the body may retain fluid, resulting in swelling in the legs or abdomen, while kidney problems can cause similar symptoms due to impaired fluid balance.

The other terms mentioned have distinct meanings that do not relate specifically to the accumulation of fluid in tissues. Inflammation refers to the body's response to injury or infection, necrosis is the death of cells or tissue, and hypertrophy pertains to an increase in the size of cells or organs, not fluid accumulation. These distinctions highlight why edema is the most accurate term for the described condition.