What term refers to the accumulation of fluid in interstitial space due to pathologic changes in the capillary structure?

The term that refers to the accumulation of fluid in the interstitial space due to pathologic changes in the capillary structure is edema. Edema occurs when there is an imbalance between the forces that keep fluid in the vascular system and those that push it out into the surrounding tissues. This can happen due to various conditions, such as increased capillary permeability, reduced oncotic pressure, or increased hydrostatic pressure, all of which may lead to excessive fluid leakage into the interstitium.

Inflammation is a broader term that describes the body's response to injury or infection, which may involve various cellular and biochemical processes but does not specifically signify the accumulation of interstitial fluid as edema does. Ischemia refers to a deficiency in blood supply to tissues, resulting in a lack of oxygen and nutrients, while hypoxia specifically denotes insufficient oxygen supply. Neither of these terms relates directly to the accumulation of fluid in interstitial spaces. Therefore, edema is the most accurate and specific term for this process.