Massachusetts Funeral Director Practice Exam

What are the little yellow spots typically found around the eyes and mouth?

1. Age spots

2. Bruising

3. Jaundice

4. Emaciation

The correct answer is: Jaundice

The little yellow spots typically found around the eyes and mouth are indicative of jaundice, which is a condition characterized by an excess of bilirubin in the bloodstream. This excess causes yellowing of the skin and the sclera (the whites of the eyes), and it can often present as yellow spots on the face, particularly in sensitive areas like the eyes and mouth. Jaundice may be seen in cases of liver dysfunction, hemolytic anemia, or other medical conditions that affect bilirubin metabolism. It is important to recognize these signs as they can provide critical information regarding the deceased's medical history and potential cause of death, and they are significant in the context of embalming and preparing the body for viewing. In contrast, age spots are typically flat, brown in color, and appear on the skin due to sun exposure and aging, while bruising is marked by discoloration that results from trauma to blood vessels. Emaciation refers to excessive thinness resulting from malnutrition or disease, which does not produce yellow spots. Understanding these differences is crucial for funeral directors, as they need to accurately interpret and communicate the appearances that may arise after death.