What characterizes edema caused by DVT?

Edema caused by deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is typically characterized by swelling that occurs in the affected leg, which may include both the ankle and the leg itself. This is a result of impaired venous return due to the obstruction of blood flow from a thrombus (blood clot) formed in the deep veins. The trapped blood leads to increased hydrostatic pressure in the veins, causing fluid to leak into the surrounding tissues, resulting in swelling.

The correct option highlights that both the ankles and the legs are involved in the swelling, which aligns with the clinical presentation of DVT.

Localized swelling in the thigh can occur in DVT cases, but it is not the most comprehensive description of the edema pattern typically observed; hence, it doesn’t encompass the generalized nature of swelling in relation to the ankle and leg. Similarly, swelling of only the feet or just the legs without including the ankles is not consistent with DVT edema, which generally affects the entire limb. Therefore, the emphasis on swelling in both the ankles and the legs in the correct answer provides a more accurate representation of the condition associated with DVT.