Use the A-Z list to browse more than 6,000 health-related topics in our library. Clicking on a term opens the definition and, in most cases, links to more information.
A rare neuromuscular disorder that results from abnormalities in the DNA of mitochondria. It is marked by progressive limitation of eye movements until there is complete immobility. Onset usually occurs before the age of 20. More Information on Kearns Sayre Syndrome: Myopathy
Simple contract-and-release exercises that strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor, which help support the vagina, bladder and urethra. May be recommended to decrease urinary or bowel incontinence or to increase sexual satisfaction. More Information on Kegel Exercises: Urinary & Bladder
"Keloid Acne" is more commonly referred to as "Acne Keloidalis Nuchae" in the medical community. Acne Keloidalis Nuchae
Also Known As: "Acne Keloidalis"
Occurs when hairs on the back of the head and neck grow into the skin, become inflamed and cause scar tissue. More Information on Acne Keloidalis Nuchae: Acne & Blemish
Raised, red scars at a wound site that result from uncontrolled collagen production and usually extend beyond wound boundaries. Often found on the upper back, upper chest or shoulders, they tend to affect those of African and Asian descent. More Information on Keloids: Skin Growths
Raised, often itchy red scars that form at a wound site. Keloids usually extend beyond a wound's boundaries, while hypertrophic scars usually stay within a wound's boundaries. More Information on Keloids & Hypertrophic Scars: Skin Growths
Also Known As: "Bulbospinal Muscular Atrophy, X Linked Spinal and Bulbar Muscular Atrophy"
An inherited motor neuron disease that is among a group of disorders called spinal muscular atrophy. It affects males, and onset of the disease is usually between ages 20 and 40. First symptoms include tremor of the outstretched hands. More Information on Kennedy's Disease: Movement Disorders
A tough protein found in upper layers of the skin, nails and hair that is the chief structural constituent of these organs. It provides strength and resiliency. More Information on Keratin: Skin & Hair Basics
Relatively common, benign growth found in elderly, light-skinned individuals. Extensive exposure to the sun is often associated with this condition, which frequently appears at sites that have suffered previous injury or trauma. More Information on Keratoacanthoma: Skin Growths
"Keratosis Diffusa Fetalis" is more commonly referred to as "Harlequin Ichthyosis" in the medical community. Harlequin Ichthyosis
Also Known As: "Ichthyosis Fetalis, Harlequin Fetus, Harlequin Baby, Ichthyosis Congenita"
A condition present from birth in which the baby has thick, armor-like scales instead of skin, divided by deep red fissures or cracks. While often fatal within days, improvements have been made in care and some children survive into adulthood. More Information on Harlequin Ichthyosis: Psoriasis & Autoimmune Skin
Skin condition of the upper arms, buttocks and thighs in which skin cells that normally flake off instead plug hair follicles. This results in small pimples (usually white, sometimes red) with a dry ''sandpaper'' feeling. More Information on Keratosis Pilaris: Acne & Blemish
Selenium deficiency disease that is a potentially fatal form of heart muscle disease (cardiomyopathy). It usually occurs where selenium is lacking in the soil. Supplements are the main treatment. More Information on Keshan Disease: Minerals
"Ketamine" is more commonly referred to as "Special K" in the medical community. Special K
A widely used animal tranquilizer that is used illegally as a recreational drug. It is a powerful hallucinogen that is usually snorted, but may also be sprinkled on tobacco or marijuana and smoked. More Information on Special K: Alcohol & Substance Abuse
"Ketoacidosis" is more commonly referred to as "Diabetic Ketoacidosis" in the medical community. Diabetic Ketoacidosis
Also Known As: "DKA"
A serious condition combining a severe lack of insulin with extremely high glucose (blood sugar) levels. This results in the body using stored fat for energy and a buildup of ketones in the blood. Untreated, it can lead to coma or death. More Information on Diabetic Ketoacidosis: Glucose
Chemicals that are produced when the body uses stored fat instead of glucose for energy. High levels in the body can kill body cells, cause "fruity" smelling breath and can eventually lead to a coma. More Information on Ketone Bodies: Glucose
Urine tests that can be conducted at home using a test strip to determine if levels of ketones are elevated. This is an important warning sign of ketosis (elevated blood ketone levels) and ketoacidosis, a potentially life-threatening condition. More Information on Ketone Tests: Diabetes & Endocrine Tests
Chemicals that are produced when the body uses stored fat instead of glucose for energy. High levels in the body can kill body cells, cause "fruity" smelling breath and can eventually lead to a coma. More Information on Ketones: Glucose
Higher than normal levels of ketones (chemicals produced when the body uses stored fat instead of glucose for energy) in the urine. High levels in the body can kill body cells, cause "fruity" smelling breath and could eventually lead to coma. More Information on Ketonuria: Glucose
A pain reliever and anti-inflammatory medication that belongs to the class of medications called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Comes in eye-drop, pill and intravenous forms. More Information on Ketorolac: Pain Medications
High levels of ketones in the blood as the result of the body using stored fat instead of glucose for energy. It can be caused by uncontrolled diabetes, low-carb diets or pregnancy. Over time, it can result in serious health problems. More Information on Ketosis: Glucose
A childhood disorder combining ketosis (higher than normal ketone levels) and hypoglycemia (lower than normal glucose levels). Its cause is not completely understood, but it can usually be resolved with dietary changes. More Information on Ketotic Hypoglycemia: Glucose
Also Known As: "Buttonhole Surgery, Laparoscopic Bypass"
A bypass surgery in which a window is cut into the rib cage to allow surgeons to operate on a section of the heart without open-heart surgery. The heart is not stopped for the procedure, which is only used to correct single blockages. More Information on Keyhole Surgery: Bypass Surgery
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