Which condition results from the swelling of tissues due to fluid accumulation?

Edema is a condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the interstitial spaces of tissues, leading to swelling. This can occur in various parts of the body, and it may result from a variety of factors such as injury, inflammation, or underlying health issues like heart failure or kidney disease. The essence of edema is the actual excess fluid, which causes noticeable puffiness or swelling in the affected area.

In contrast, other terms like cellulitis refer to specific infections of the skin and subcutaneous tissues, inflammation is a broader response to injury or infection, and infection signifies the invasion of pathogens. While inflammation can sometimes lead to the development of edema, it is not defined primarily by fluid accumulation itself—rather, it is a systemic response of the body to various stimuli including pathogens, injury, or irritants. Thus, edema distinctly describes the swelling caused directly by fluid retention in tissues.