Which phase follows the icteric phase and indicates recovery?

Which phase follows the icteric phase and indicates recovery?

• A. Preicteric
• B. Icteric
• C. Posticteric
• D. Convalescent

Answer: (C)

The question tests knowledge of the hepatitis illness timeline and which phase signals recovery. After the icteric phase, bilirubin levels begin to fall and jaundice fades. This marks the start of recovery: scleral icterus diminishes, urine color returns to normal, stool color normalizes, appetite and energy improve, and liver function tests trend toward normal. This is the posticteric phase, the period of convalescence beginning as the patient moves toward full recovery.

The question tests knowledge of the hepatitis illness timeline and which phase signals recovery. After the icteric phase, bilirubin levels begin to fall and jaundice fades. This marks the start of recovery: scleral icterus diminishes, urine color returns to normal, stool color normalizes, appetite and energy improve, and liver function tests trend toward normal. This is the posticteric phase, the period of convalescence beginning as the patient moves toward full recovery.