Vevsvæskebalanse

Vevsvæskebalanse refers to the equilibrium of fluid within the body's tissues, specifically the interstitial fluid that surrounds cells. This delicate balance is crucial for numerous physiological processes, including nutrient and waste transport, cellular function, and maintaining tissue structure. The body tightly regulates the movement of fluid between the blood plasma, interstitial fluid, and intracellular fluid through a combination of hydrostatic pressure and osmotic pressure gradients.

Hydrostatic pressure, the force exerted by fluid against vessel walls, tends to push fluid out of capillaries into the interstitial space. Conversely, osmotic pressure, primarily driven by the concentration of solutes like proteins in the plasma, draws fluid back into the capillaries. Proteins, particularly albumin, are key players in maintaining this osmotic balance.

Disruptions to vevsvæskebalanse can lead to edema, the abnormal accumulation of excess fluid in the interstitial spaces. Edema can be caused by various factors, including increased capillary hydrostatic pressure (e.g., heart failure), decreased plasma oncotic pressure (e.g., liver or kidney disease), increased capillary permeability (e.g., inflammation or allergic reactions), or impaired lymphatic drainage. Maintaining proper vevsvæskebalanse is essential for overall health and proper organ function.