American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Practice Exam

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Which term is used to describe the pigmentation that gives color to the skin?

Melanin
Pediculosis
Jaundice
Ecchymosis

The correct answer is: Melanin

Melanin is the pigment primarily responsible for the color of human skin, hair, and eyes. It is produced by specialized cells known as melanocytes, which are found in the skin’s basal layer. The amount and type of melanin produced determines an individual's skin tone and can vary greatly among different populations. In contrast, pediculosis refers to a condition caused by lice infestations, not related to pigmentation. Jaundice is the yellowish discoloration of the skin and eyes due to an excess of bilirubin in the bloodstream, indicating liver dysfunction rather than pigmentation. Ecchymosis involves bruising or the discoloration of the skin resulting from bleeding under the skin, which is also not a form of pigmentation. Therefore, melanin is the correct term to describe the natural pigmentation that gives color to the skin.