Lesson 5.1: Moisture Considerations

Hydrocephalus

Abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluids in the ventricles of the brain.

HuydrothoraX

Abnormal accumulation of fluid in the thoracic cavity.

Hydropericardium

Abnormal accumulation of fluid within the pericardial sac.

Hydrocele

Abnormal accumulation of fluids in the scrotal sac.

Edema

Abnormal accumulation of fluids in tissue or body cavities.

Ascites

Accumulation of serous fluids in the peritoneal (abdominal) cavity.

Pitting (Intercellular) Edema

Condition in which interstitial spaces contain such excessive amounts of fluid that the skin remains depressed after palpation.

Dessication

Extreme dehydration often resulting in post-embalming discolorations.

Anasarca

Generalized edema in subcutaneous tissue.

Hypostasis

Process of blood and/or other fluids settling to the dependent portions of the body; can occur in the antemortem, agonal, or postmortem periods.

Cellular (Solid) Edema

Moisture is retained by the cell OR abnormal amounts of fluid are allowed to pass into the cell. These tissues feel very firm to the touch and indentations are not made when pushed upon (as in pitting edema.)