Methods and devices are provided for detecting the presence of edema in a mammalian host. In the subject methods, the perimeter of at least one limbic extremity, preferably a lower limbic extremity such as an ankle or foot, is measured to obtain a perimeter value. The perimeter value is then compared to a control value and any difference is identified. The difference is then related to the presence of edema in the patient. The subject methods find use in the diagnosis and management of diseases characterized by the presence of edema as a physical manifestation, particularly congestive heart failure, more particularly right-sided or biventricular failure.