Canine peripheral edema occurs when fluid accumulates in the animal's tissue or around the body organs. It can manifest as a localized swelling in one small area or more diffuse.
In other word, peripheral edema is an excessive buildup of fluid in the spaces between body tissue and organs. It can appear at a single body location or throughout the body. This condition is characterized by swelling due to excessive accumulation of tissue fluid within the interstitium which is a small space, or gap, in the substance of the body’s tissues or organs. The swelling can be localized (focal) or generalized (diffuse) in location.
Poodles, Bulldogs, Old English Sheepdogs and Labrador Retrievers are breeds which are thought to be predisposed to this disorder.
Most dogs that are affected with peripheral edema have previously suffered from allergies, or other immune, cardiac or organic diseases.
Any visible symptoms are almost impossible to detect during early phase of peripheral edema. Abnormal weight gain is among the first signs. Throat and/or abdomen are the first areas where fluid accumulation may become apparent.
