American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Practice Exam

Which condition is indicated by the yellowness of the skin?

1. Melanoma

2. Ecchymosis

3. Jaundice

4. Pediculosis

The correct answer is: Jaundice

Jaundice is characterized by the yellowing of the skin and the sclera (the white part of the eyes) due to an accumulation of bilirubin in the bloodstream. Bilirubin is a yellow compound that is a byproduct of the normal breakdown of red blood cells. When the liver is unable to adequately process bilirubin, or when there is an obstruction in the bile ducts, bilirubin levels rise, leading to the yellow discoloration that is characteristic of jaundice. This condition can be a sign of various underlying health issues, such as liver disease, gallstones, or hemolytic anemia. In contrast, melanoma refers to a type of skin cancer that can lead to changes in pigmentation but does not specifically cause yellowing of the skin. Ecchymosis is related to bruising caused by bleeding underneath the skin, resulting in a purple or blue discoloration, rather than yellow. Pediculosis is a condition caused by lice infestation, which does not produce any changes in skin color like jaundice does. Thus, the indication of yellowness of the skin directly points to jaundice as the correct condition.