Final answer:
Cyanosis in individuals with dark pigmented skin manifests as a deeper tone of brown or purple, reflecting a reduced oxygen level in the blood.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cyanosis in dark pigmented skin, such as in African-American patients, appears as a deeper tone of brown or purple. This condition indicates a reduced level of oxygen in the blood. Cyanosis can be the result of several underlying health issues including respiratory difficulties, like asthma or a heart attack, or heart defects such as tetralogy of Fallot or patent foramen ovale. It's important for healthcare providers to be adept at recognizing subtle changes in skin coloration in patients with darker skin tones to provide timely and effective care.