Pulmonary edema is defined as which of the following?

• A. Inflammation of the lungs without fluid accumulation
• B. Accumulation of fluid in the lungs
• C. No evidence of fluid accumulation
• D. Infection of lungs without fluid

Answer: (B)

Pulmonary edema is fluid buildup in the lungs, specifically in the interstitial spaces and alveoli, which impairs gas exchange. The correct description matches this fluid accumulation in the lungs. The other options describe inflammation without fluid, no fluid buildup, or infection without fluid, none of which capture the edema feature. In practice, this condition presents with shortness of breath and crackles on auscultation, and management focuses on reducing fluid overload and improving oxygenation.