Which term is an abnormally high level of bilirubin in the blood; manifested by jaundice, anorexia, and malaise; occurring in association with liver disease and certain hemolytic anemias?

• A. Icterus
• B. Gluconeogenesis
• C. Hyperbilirubinemia
• D. Hematemesis

Answer: (C)

When bilirubin builds up in the bloodstream, the condition is called hyperbilirubinemia. This elevated bilirubin level leads to jaundice, which fits with the description of yellowing of the skin and eyes, along with symptoms like anorexia and malaise that can accompany liver disease or increased red cell breakdown (hemolysis). Icterus describes the visible yellowing itself, not the underlying high bilirubin in the blood. The other terms refer to unrelated processes—gluconeogenesis is glucose production from non-carbohydrates, and hematemesis is vomiting blood. So the best term for an abnormally high bilirubin level in the blood is hyperbilirubinemia.