The bilateral pedal and ankle edema

A 78-year-old woman comes to the physician because of a 10-month history of fatigue and shortness of breath onexertion in addition to a 2-month history of ankle swelling. Examination of the lower extremities shows bilateral pedal and ankle edema. A cardiac examination shows abnormal heart sounds. Which of the following is the most likely etiologyof the patient’s lower extremity edema?

O a. Localized lymphatic obstruction.

b. Increased capillary hydrostatic pressure.

Oc. Thrombus formation in a deep vein.

Od. Dermal accumulation of glycosaminoglycans.

O e. Decreased plasma oncotic pressure.