What is a characteristic symptom of beta-carotinemia?

Beta-carotinemia is characterized by an excess of beta-carotene in the blood, typically resulting from a diet high in carotenoid-rich foods, such as carrots and sweet potatoes. As beta-carotene accumulates, it can lead to a noticeable yellowing of the skin, particularly in areas with more stratum corneum, such as the palms and soles. This condition is important to differentiate from jaundice, as jaundice is associated with increased bilirubin levels, which leads to yellowing of the skin and sclera and may indicate liver dysfunction or hemolysis.

In beta-carotinemia, the eyes and sclera remain normal in color, while the skin shows a prominent yellow hue. This unique presentation of yellow skin, devoid of accompanying changes such as scleral icterus, is the hallmark symptom that classifies it as beta-carotinemia. Other choices, such as white spots on the skin or darkened nails, are not characteristic symptoms of this condition and do not relate to the underlying metabolic process involved in beta-carotinemia.