What condition is characterized by yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes?

Jaundice is the condition characterized by a yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, a result of an excess of bilirubin in the bloodstream. Bilirubin is a yellow compound produced during the breakdown of red blood cells. When the liver is unable to process bilirubin effectively, or when there is an obstruction in the biliary system, bilirubin accumulates, leading to the characteristic yellow coloration. This can occur due to various underlying issues, such as liver disease, hemolytic anemia, or bile duct obstruction.

In contrast, a rash refers to a change in skin color or texture, which does not specifically involve yellowing. Bruising results from localized bleeding beneath the skin, causing a variety of color changes but not yellowing of the skin overall. Erythema is a term used to describe redness of the skin, usually due to increased blood flow, irritation, or inflammation, and is also not associated with yellowing. Therefore, jaundice is uniquely identified by its characteristic yellow hue affecting both skin and sclera (the whites of the eyes).