What does the term 'Cyanosis' indicate on physical examination of a patient?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes due to high deoxygenated hemoglobin
- Step 1: When capillary blood contains >= 5 g/dL of deoxygenated (reduced) hemoglobin, light scattering imparts a bluish tint. Step 2. This bluish discoloration of skin, lips, and nail beds is termed cyanosis (signaling arterial hypoxemia or circulatory stagnation). Answer: Bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes due to high deoxygenated hemoglobin. Why not the others: Yellow sclera is jaundice (icterus); Facial flushing is erythema; Conjunctival pallor is sign of anemia.
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