What type of edema is characteristic of hypothyroidism?

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Non-pitting edema is characteristic of hypothyroidism because it occurs due to the buildup of glycosaminoglycans in the interstitial spaces, which hold onto water and create a more viscous effect. In hypothyroidism, there is a decrease in metabolism and an increase in systemic fluid retention, leading to a general swelling that does not cause indentation when pressure is applied, which is why it is termed 'non-pitting.' This type of edema is typically found in the facial area, especially around the eyes, and in other parts of the body due to the overall fluid imbalance associated with thyroid deficiency.

In contrast, pitting edema involves indentations when pressure is applied and is usually more associated with conditions like heart failure or venous insufficiency. Localized edema typically refers to swelling in a specific area, resulting from trauma or other localized causes, while swelling due to inflammation can show pitting but is more related to immune responses and not the metabolic aspects seen in hypothyroidism. Thus, understanding the unique presentations of edema types helps in diagnosing and managing patient conditions effectively.

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