xanthochromia Definition
- 1the yellowish appearance of cerebrospinal fluid that is normally clear and colorless, indicating the presence of bilirubin or blood breakdown products
- 2a yellow discoloration of the skin or sclera caused by excess bilirubin in the blood
Using xanthochromia: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "xanthochromia" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The doctor ordered a lumbar puncture to check for xanthochromia in the cerebrospinal fluid.
Example
Xanthochromia is a common finding in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Example
Jaundice is a type of xanthochromia that affects the skin and eyes.
Origins of xanthochromia
from Greek 'xanthos' meaning 'yellow' and 'chroma' meaning 'color'
Summary: xanthochromia in Brief
Xanthochromia [zan-thuh-kroh-mee-uh] refers to the yellowish appearance of normally clear cerebrospinal fluid, indicating the presence of bilirubin or blood breakdown products. It can also refer to yellow discoloration of the skin or sclera caused by excess bilirubin in the blood. Xanthochromia is commonly found in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage and can be detected through a lumbar puncture.
