Which condition is indicated by jaundice?

Jaundice is specifically characterized by the yellowing of the skin and the sclera (the white part of the eyes) due to elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood. This occurs when there is an imbalance in the breakdown of red blood cells or issues with liver function, which can prevent the normal processing and excretion of bilirubin. Elevated bilirubin levels lead to the visible change in skin color, thus making yellowing of the skin the correct descriptor for jaundice.

The other options refer to different skin conditions that do not relate to jaundice; redness of the skin can be associated with inflammation or irritation, paleness may indicate anemia or blood loss, and itching (pruritus) is a symptom that can arise from various conditions but is not a defining characteristic of jaundice.