Which condition is a common cause of peripheral edema?

Peripheral edema is the accumulation of fluid in the tissues, particularly in the extremities, and congestive heart failure (CHF) is a well-known condition that leads to this issue. In CHF, the heart's ability to pump blood effectively is compromised, which can cause blood to back up in the veins. This increased pressure within the veins pushes fluid into the surrounding tissues, resulting in swelling, typically seen in the legs and ankles.

Asthma primarily affects the respiratory system and does not typically cause fluid accumulation in peripheral tissues. Diabetes can lead to various complications, including neuropathy and blood vessel damage, but it is not directly associated with causing peripheral edema unless there's kidney involvement. Pneumonia, an infection in the lungs, primarily causes respiratory symptoms and does not lead to peripheral edema in a direct manner.

Thus, congestive heart failure is the likely underlying condition when peripheral edema is observed, making it the most appropriate choice.