What term describes the accumulation of bilirubin in the skin?

What term describes the accumulation of bilirubin in the skin?

• A. Jaundice
• B. Hemolysis
• C. Cholestasis
• D. Kernicterus

Answer: (A)

Jaundice is the yellowing of the skin and eyes due to elevated bilirubin in the blood. When bilirubin builds up (hyperbilirubinemia), it deposits in tissues, especially the skin, creating that characteristic yellow tint. The sclera often turns yellow first, then the skin as levels rise. Hemolysis describes increased bilirubin production, cholestasis refers to impaired bile flow that can cause jaundice, and kernicterus is bilirubin depositing in the brain. But the term that specifically describes bilirubin accumulation in the skin is jaundice.

Jaundice is the yellowing of the skin and eyes due to elevated bilirubin in the blood. When bilirubin builds up (hyperbilirubinemia), it deposits in tissues, especially the skin, creating that characteristic yellow tint. The sclera often turns yellow first, then the skin as levels rise. Hemolysis describes increased bilirubin production, cholestasis refers to impaired bile flow that can cause jaundice, and kernicterus is bilirubin depositing in the brain. But the term that specifically describes bilirubin accumulation in the skin is jaundice.