What is the term used for swelling of body tissue resulting from plasma movement from capillaries?

The term that specifically describes the swelling of body tissue due to the movement of plasma from capillaries is edema. This condition occurs when excess fluid accumulates in the interstitial spaces of tissues, leading to visible swelling. Edema can arise from various causes, including inflammation, injury, or changes in blood pressure and osmosis.

Inflammation, while it may accompany edema and result in swelling, refers to the body's response to injury or infection, characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain. Infection involves the invasion of pathogens and is not synonymous with the specific fluid accumulation described by edema. Immunosuppression refers to a reduced ability of the immune system to fight infections or disease and does not relate to the fluid movement from capillaries.

Understanding these distinctions is essential in medical terminology, as they guide clinicians in diagnosing and treating various conditions.