Plain English Meaning

Swelling under the skin where pressing with a finger leaves a dent that takes a moment to fade. It is a sign that fluid is collecting in the tissues.

Full Definition

A type of soft-tissue swelling caused by fluid buildup under the skin, in which firm finger pressure leaves a visible indentation (a 'pit') that slowly refills after the finger is removed. In aviation medicine, it is one of the visible signs associated with decompression sickness, particularly when fluid shifts occur in the limbs.

Context Anchor

Seen in discussions of altitude-induced decompression sickness symptoms, especially after flight at high altitude, loss of cabin pressure, or rapid decompression exposure.