A Decreased Plasma Oncotic Pressure is Caused By

Question

A decreased plasma oncotic pressure is caused by
A) loss of plasma proteins, such as albumin.
B) leukocytosis.
C) a hypoxemia-induced polycythemia.
D) dehydration and "tenting."

Accepted Answer

A decreased plasma oncotic pressure is caused by loss of plasma proteins, such as albumin. When there are fewer plasma proteins, there is less osmotic pressure to draw fluid back into the capillaries, resulting in edema. Leukocytosis and a hypoxemia-induced polycythemia do not directly affect plasma oncotic pressure, and dehydration and "tenting" result in an increase in plasma oncotic pressure.