A patient showing symptoms of hemolytic anemia will likely present with what characteristic?

Study for the CDCA North East Regional Board (NERB) Exam. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Get ready for your test!

A patient with hemolytic anemia typically presents with jaundice, which is characterized by a yellowing of the skin and eyes due to an increase in bilirubin levels resulting from the breakdown of red blood cells. Hemolytic anemia leads to the rapid destruction of red blood cells, causing the liver to process excess bilirubin, which can accumulate and manifest as jaundice.

Pallor can occur in anemia generally as it indicates a deficiency in red blood cells, but it's not specific to hemolytic anemia. Fatigue is also a common symptom associated with anemia, as the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood is decreased, affecting energy levels. Excessive bruising can occur, but it is more related to clotting disorders or vascular issues, rather than being a direct characteristic of hemolytic anemia itself.

Therefore, jaundice is a key indicator of hemolytic anemia and is the characteristic symptom that would be most expected in a patient with this condition.

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