What is typically observed in the appearance of skin affected by edema?

Skin affected by edema typically shows swelling as a primary characteristic. Edema occurs when excess fluid accumulates in the interstitial spaces of the skin or underlying tissues. This buildup leads to a noticeable increase in volume, resulting in a swollen appearance.

While puffiness is also associated with edema and may describe the look of the swollen skin, swelling refers directly to the expansion and increase in size due to fluid accumulation. Therefore, when discussing the key attribute of skin affected by edema, swelling is the most accurate term to use.

The other options, though related, do not define the condition as precisely as swelling does. Smoothing implies a reduction in irregularities, which is not applicable to swollen skin. Brightening suggests clarity or illumination of the skin, which is not characteristic of edema. Thus, swelling is the definitive response to understand how edema manifests on the skin.