What is a typical finding in a patient with cirrhosis?

In cases of cirrhosis, jaundice is a hallmark clinical finding. This condition occurs due to the liver's compromised ability to process bilirubin, a byproduct of the breakdown of red blood cells. When the liver becomes damaged and scarred as seen in cirrhosis, its function diminishes, leading to an accumulation of bilirubin in the bloodstream, which then manifests as a yellowing of the skin and sclera (the whites of the eyes), known as jaundice.

Patients with cirrhosis may also experience other symptoms and complications, but jaundice is particularly indicative of the liver's impaired function. Understanding how cirrhosis affects bilirubin processing is crucial in recognizing the signs of the disease and its impact on the body's overall health.