Peripheral edema Peripheral edema Peripheral edema is edema (accumulation of fluid causing swelling) in tissues perfused by the peripheral vascular system, usually in the lower limbs. In the most dependent parts of the body (those hanging distally), it may be called dependent edema. The condition is commonly associated with aging, but can be caused by many other conditions, including congestive heart failure, renal failure, liver cirrhosis, portal hypertention, trauma, alcoholism, altitude sickness, pregnancy, hypertension, sickle cell anemia, compromised lymphatic system, or merely long periods of time sitting or standing without moving. Some medicines (e.g. amlodipine, pregabalin) may also cause or worsen the
Erectile tissue Erectile tissue Erectile tissue is tissue in the body with numerous vascular spaces that may become engorged with blood. However, tissue that is devoid of or otherwise lacking erectile tissue (such as the labia minora, the vestibule/vagina and the urethra) may also be described as engorging with blood, often with regard to sexual arousal. Erectile tissue exists in places such as the corpora cavernosa of the penis, and in the clitoris or in the bulbs of vestibule. During erection, the corpora cavernosa will become engorged with arterial blood, a process called "tumescence". This may result from any of various physiological