In the posticteric phase, which statement best describes jaundice and stool color?

In the posticteric phase, which statement best describes jaundice and stool color?

• A. Jaundice and dark urine worsen
• B. Jaundice and dark urine persist with clay-colored stool
• C. Jaundice and dark urine begin to subside and stool returns to normal
• D. Jaundice resolves but stool remains pale

Answer: (C)

The posticteric phase is when bilirubin levels are falling as recovery occurs, so jaundice fades and bilirubin-related changes begin to reverse. Because conjugated bilirubin is no longer being excreted in the urine in high amounts, the dark urine diminishes and returns toward normal. Simultaneously, bile pigments start reaching the intestine again, so stool regains its normal color rather than staying pale or clay-colored. Therefore, the description that fits best is that jaundice and dark urine begin to subside and stool returns to normal. If pale stools persisted after jaundice resolved, that would suggest ongoing biliary obstruction, which would not align with the posticteric recovery state.

The posticteric phase is when bilirubin levels are falling as recovery occurs, so jaundice fades and bilirubin-related changes begin to reverse. Because conjugated bilirubin is no longer being excreted in the urine in high amounts, the dark urine diminishes and returns toward normal. Simultaneously, bile pigments start reaching the intestine again, so stool regains its normal color rather than staying pale or clay-colored. Therefore, the description that fits best is that jaundice and dark urine begin to subside and stool returns to normal. If pale stools persisted after jaundice resolved, that would suggest ongoing biliary obstruction, which would not align with the posticteric recovery state.