Which physical symptom is commonly associated with chronic alcohol use disorder, indicating cirrhosis of the liver?

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The correct choice is the presence of yellowish skin, commonly known as jaundice, which is a key indicator of liver dysfunction, particularly cirrhosis resulting from chronic alcohol use disorder. In this condition, the liver's ability to process bilirubin, a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown, is impaired. When the liver is damaged, bilirubin accumulates in the bloodstream, resulting in a yellowing of the skin and the eyes.

Other symptoms associated with cirrhosis may include a distended abdomen due to fluid accumulation (ascites), but this is not as definitive a sign as jaundice. Coughing up blood is more commonly related to other complications, such as esophageal varices, and a butterfly-shaped rash is associated with conditions like lupus rather than liver disorders. Therefore, while other symptoms may present in individuals with liver issues, the specific manifestation of yellowish skin is a direct and distinguishing symptom linked to impaired liver function due to chronic alcohol misuse.

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