ABSTRACT
Yellow discoloration of the sclera and oral mucous membranes may be detected during examination of patients complaining of jaundice or symptoms such as abdominal pain, weight loss or fever. To differentiate between jaundice and other conditions that cause yellow discoloration of skin (e.g. excessive consumption of vegetables high in beta-carotene or medication such as rifampicin), the sclera and oral mucous membranes should be inspected in natural light, since only jaundice causes such discoloration.
