This example of edema associated with inflammation is not trivial at all: there is marked laryngeal edema and swollen epiglottis such that the airway is narrowed. This is life-threatening. Thus, fluid collections can be serious depending upon their location.

Question: What might be the cause?

AnswerAnaphylaxis can lead to marked edema. This type I hypersensitivity response could be due to an allergic reaction, as with a bee sting or ingesting a drug such as penicillin.