To what color does 'icteric serum' refer?

To what color does 'icteric serum' refer?

• A. Yellow
• B. Red
• C. Brown
• D. Green

Answer: (A)

Icteric serum signals a yellow color because of elevated bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is the pigment produced when red blood cells are broken down. Normally the liver processes and conjugates bilirubin so it can be excreted in bile, but when this system is overwhelmed or obstructed—such as in liver disease, bile duct blockage, or rapid hemolysis—bilirubin accumulates in the bloodstream. That buildup gives the serum its characteristic yellow tint. Red or brown hues would point to different issues (like hemolysis causing a red-tinged sample), while green isn’t the typical appearance of icteric serum.

Icteric serum signals a yellow color because of elevated bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is the pigment produced when red blood cells are broken down. Normally the liver processes and conjugates bilirubin so it can be excreted in bile, but when this system is overwhelmed or obstructed—such as in liver disease, bile duct blockage, or rapid hemolysis—bilirubin accumulates in the bloodstream. That buildup gives the serum its characteristic yellow tint. Red or brown hues would point to different issues (like hemolysis causing a red-tinged sample), while green isn’t the typical appearance of icteric serum.