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Definition Kernicterus is a rare but serious neurological disorder that occurs as a result of severe hyperbilirubinemia, which is a high level of bilirubin in the blood. When red blood cells break down, they produce a yellowish substance called bilirubin. The liver normally processes and excretes it. In the case …

Definition Kleptomania is a complex impulse control disorder. It is an inability to resist the urge of stealing. It is characterized by problems with emotional or behavioral self-control. People with impulse control disorder have difficulty in resisting the temptation to steal things which are generally not required or have a …

Overview Knee pain is becoming an extremely common problem, especially in the younger population. Several reasons, such as wear and tear, or an injury, can cause knee pain. There are many different ways to treat knee pain, depending on the patient’s cause and condition. Knee pain can affect various parts …

What is Keratosis pilaris? Keratosis pilaris (KP) is a very common skin condition, typically seen in children and young adults. The term ‘keratosis’ means that there is too much keratin, the protein that protects skin from infections and other harmful things, while ‘pilaris’ comes from the Latin for hair (pilus). …

Definition Kniest dysplasia is collagenopathy collagen II affecting bone growth and is characterized by short stature (dwarfism), other skeletal abnormalities, and hearing and vision problems. The latter are mostly myopia, vitreous degeneration, and retinal detachment. Skeletal features may include kyphoscoliosis, platyspondyly, dumbbell-shaped bones in the arms and legs, long, gnarled …

What is Kaposi sarcoma? Kaposi sarcoma is a rare cancer that gained widespread attention during the early days of Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immune Deficiency (HIV/AIDS) infections. Since then, innovative medical research and treatment significantly reduced the number of Kaposi sarcoma cases. People with weakened immune systems are susceptible to Kaposi …

Definition Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome (KTS) is a rare congenital malformation involving blood and lymph vessels and abnormal growth of soft and bone tissue. Typical symptoms include hemangiomas (abnormal benign growths on the skin consisting of masses of blood vessels) and varicose veins.  Fused toes or fingers, or extra toes or fingers, …

What is kwashiorkor? Kwashiorkor is a type of malnutrition that is most common in areas of drought and famine. It is due to inadequate protein in the diet despite an adequate caloric intake. Symptoms may include irritability and fatigue followed by slowed growth, weight loss, and muscle wasting, generalized swelling, …