If a blockage reduces lymphatic system drainage in lower limbs, which consequence follows regarding fluid balance and edema formation?

💡 Explanation

When lymphatic drainage is blocked, fluid accumulates in the interstitial space because the lymphatic system normally removes excess fluid and proteins from tissues; therefore, interstitial fluid hydrostatic pressure increases, leading to edema, rather than a decrease in osmotic pressure which would draw fluid into the capillaries.

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