Which condition is characterized by swelling due to fluid accumulation?

• A. Avulsion
• B. Edema
• C. Contusion
• D. Paraspinal tenderness

Answer: (B)

The condition characterized by swelling due to fluid accumulation is edema. Edema occurs when excess fluid accumulates in the tissues, leading to noticeable swelling in various parts of the body. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as injury, inflammation, or underlying health conditions affecting fluid balance.

Avulsion refers to a type of injury where a body structure is forcibly detached or torn away, often associated with trauma or surgery. Contusion is a bruise caused by a breakdown of blood vessels in the skin, also resulting from trauma but not specifically related to fluid accumulation in the tissues. Paraspinal tenderness refers to discomfort or pain around the spine, commonly indicating muscle strain or injury, but does not inherently involve the presence of swelling caused by fluid buildup.

Thus, edema is specifically related to the accumulation of fluid in the interstitial spaces, making it the correct choice for the condition described in the question.