What is jaundice characterized by?

Jaundice is primarily characterized by a yellow discoloration of the skin and the sclera, which is the white part of the eyes. This yellowing occurs due to an accumulation of bilirubin, a breakdown product of hemoglobin, in the bloodstream. Normally, the liver processes bilirubin and eliminates it from the body through bile. When there is an overload of bilirubin due to liver dysfunction, increased breakdown of red blood cells, or blockage of the bile ducts, the yellow pigment accumulates, leading to the noticeable symptoms of jaundice.

Other options do not align with the defining characteristics of jaundice. The redness of the skin is usually associated with conditions such as inflammation or irritation, while abnormal heartbeat and high blood pressure are cardiovascular issues and are not indicative of jaundice. Understanding jaundice is important for diagnosing underlying medical conditions that affect the liver or hematological health.