Which term describes swelling in a body part?

The term that describes swelling in a body part is edema. Edema refers specifically to an accumulation of fluid in the tissues, which leads to that characteristic swelling or puffiness. This can occur due to various reasons, including inflammation, injury, or underlying medical conditions affecting fluid balance in the body.

Sclerosis refers to the hardening of tissue, which is not relevant to the concept of swelling. Stenosis involves the narrowing of a tubular structure in the body and is often related to blood vessels or other passages, rather than swelling. Prolapse refers to the slipping or falling out of position of an organ, which is also distinct from the notion of swelling. Understanding these distinctions highlights why edema is the correct term for the condition of swelling.