In the icteric phase, which symptom is commonly present?

In the icteric phase, which symptom is commonly present?

• A. Jaundice
• B. Edema
• C. Weight gain
• D. Hyperglycemia

Answer: (A)

Jaundice is the hallmark of the icteric phase because inflammation and injury to the liver impair its ability to conjugate and excrete bilirubin, leading to a buildup that colors the skin and the whites of the eyes. In this phase, you commonly see yellow discoloration, along with dark urine and pale stools, which reflects elevated bilirubin levels. Edema and weight gain can occur with advancing liver disease but are not defining features of the icteric phase; hyperglycemia is not typical here, as liver dysfunction often disrupts glucose regulation in other ways, sometimes causing hypoglycemia rather than high blood sugar.

Jaundice is the hallmark of the icteric phase because inflammation and injury to the liver impair its ability to conjugate and excrete bilirubin, leading to a buildup that colors the skin and the whites of the eyes. In this phase, you commonly see yellow discoloration, along with dark urine and pale stools, which reflects elevated bilirubin levels. Edema and weight gain can occur with advancing liver disease but are not defining features of the icteric phase; hyperglycemia is not typical here, as liver dysfunction often disrupts glucose regulation in other ways, sometimes causing hypoglycemia rather than high blood sugar.