Effects of Volume Overload: A Case Report of an Edema Bulla

We present a case of a 75-year-old female with a history of congestive heart failure who developed a large edema bulla on her right shin after running out of her home medications. The patient presented with swelling and a rapidly enlarging bulla that reached the size of a grapefruit. Physical examination revealed bilateral pitting edema and a 10 x 10 cm bulla filled with serous fluid. Dermatology was consulted, confirming the diagnosis of edema bulla secondary to acute volume overload. The bulla was drained in the emergency department, and the patient was discharged with wound care instructions, including the application of petroleum jelly and vinegar compresses. Follow-up three months later showed significant healing. This case highlights the importance of recognizing edema bullae in patients and managing the underlying fluid overload. This case report specifically demonstrates that edema bullae can present at sizes larger than the 1-5 cm range described in existing literature.

Bulla, vesicle, dermatology, blister.