κ

Symbol for kappa, the tenth letter in the Greek alphabet.

K
K

1. Symbol for potassium; kalium; phylloquinone; kelvin; lysine; lysyl. 2. In optics, the coefficient of scleral rigidity. 3. In contact lens fitting, the radius of curvature of the flattest meridian of the apical cornea.

39K
³⁹K

Symbol for potassium-39.

40K
⁴⁰K

Symbol for potassium-40.

42K
⁴²K

Symbol for potassium-42.

43K
⁴³K

Symbol for potassium-43.

K
K

Symbol for dissociation constant; kinetic energy; luminous efficiency. See K_d.

Ka
K_a

Symbol for dissociation constant of an acid; association constant (2) (often used with gases).

Kb
K_b

Symbol for dissociation constant of a base.

Kd
K_d

Symbol for dissociation constant.

Keq
K_eq

Symbol for equilibrium constant.

Ki
K_i

Symbol for the dissociation constant of an inhibitor; in enzyme kinetics, K_ii reflects the values of K_i that affect the intercept of a double-reciprocal plot, whereas K_is reflects the values of K_i that affect the slope of the same plot.

Km
K_m

Symbol for Michaelis constant; Michaelis-Menten constant.

Kw
K_w

Symbol for autoprotolysis constant of water.

k
k

Symbol for kilo-.

k
k

Symbol for rate constants, under constant or velocity constants, under constant; Boltzmann constant.

kcat
k_cat

The overall catalytic rate of an enzyme; symbol for turnover number; V_max divided by the total enzyme concentration.

kabure
kabure (kah-boo′re)

SYN: schistosomiasis japonica.

Kaes
Kaes

Theodor, German neurologist, 1852–1913. See line of K., band of K.-Bechterew.

kafindo
kafindo (ka-fin′do)

SYN: onyalai.

kainic acid
kainic acid (ka′in-ik)

A glutamate analog that exhibits powerful and long-acting excitatory and toxic activity on neurons; used as a research tool in neurobiology to destroy neurons and as an activator of glutamate receptors. Has been used as an anthelmintic against nematodes.

kairomones
kairomones (ki′ro-mon)

Chemical messengers that are emitted by organisms of one species but benefit or affect organisms of another species; for example, a flower scent used to attract or repel other species. Cf.:pheromones, allomones.

Kaiserling
Kaiserling

Karl, German pathologist, 1869–1942. See K. fixative.

kak- kak-, kako-

See caco-.

kal- kal-, kali-

Potassium; sometimes improperly written as kalio-. [L. kalium, potassium]

kala azar
kala azar (kah′lah ah-zahr′)

SYN: visceral leishmaniasis. [Hind. kala, black, + azar, poison]

kalemia
kalemia (ka-le′me-a)

The presence of potassium in the blood.

kaliopenia
kaliopenia (ka′le-o-pe′ne-a)

Insufficiency of potassium in the body. SEE ALSO: hypokalemia. [Mod. L. kalium, potassium, + G. penia, poverty]

kaliopenic
kaliopenic (ka′le-o-pe′nik)

Relating to kaliopenia.

Kalischer
Kalischer

Siegfried, German physician, *1862. See Sturge-K.-Weber syndrome.

kalium
kalium (K) (ka′le-um)

SYN: potassium. [Mod. L. fr. Ar. quali, potash]

kaliuresis
kaliuresis (ka′le-u-re′sis)

SYN: kaluresis.

kaliuretic
kaliuretic (ka′le-u-ret′ik)

SYN: kaluretic.

kallidin
kallidin (kal′i-din)

Bradykinin with a lysyl group attached to the amino terminus; this group can be removed by an aminopeptidase in the blood to yield bradykinin; a decapeptide vasodilator. SYN: bradykininogen, k. 10, k. II, lysyl-bradykinin.
k. 9 SYN: bradykinin.
k. 10 SYN: k..
k. I SYN: bradykinin.
k. II SYN: k..

Kallikak
Kallikak (kal′i-kak)

The pseudonym for a celebrated family with two lines of descendants, one of respectable citizens, the other of social misfits and criminals. SEE ALSO: Jukes.

kallikrein
kallikrein (kal-i-kre′in)

A group of enzymes ( e.g., plasma, tissue, pancreatic, urinary, submandibular k.) that can convert kininogen by proteolysis to bradykinin or kallidin; trypsin and plasmin can also effect the conversion; plasma k. activates the Hageman factor and acts on kininogen. Tissue k. is a serine endopeptidase that can generate kallidin from kininogen. SYN: kininogenase, kininogenin.
human glandular k. 3 (hK3) SYN: prostate-specific antigen.

Kallmann
Kallmann

Franz Josef, U.S. medical geneticist and psychiatrist, 1897–1965. See K. syndrome.

kaluresis
kaluresis (kal-u-re′sis)

The increased urinary excretion of potassium. SYN: kaliuresis. [Mod. L. kalium, potassium, + G. ouresis, urination]

kaluretic
kaluretic (kal-u-ret′ik)

Relating to, causing, or characterized by kaluresis. SYN: kaliuretic.

Kandori
Kandori

Fumio, Japanese ophthalmologist, *1904. See fleck retina of K..

Kanner
Kanner

Leo, Austrian psychiatrist in U.S., 1894–1981. See K. syndrome.

kanyemba
kanyemba (kan-yem′ba)

SYN: chiufa.

kaodzera
kaodzera (kah′od-ze′ra)

A disease prevalent in Zimbabwe (formerly Rhodesia), similar to sleeping sickness, caused by Trypanosoma rhodesiense. SEE ALSO: Rhodesian trypanosomiasis.

kaolin
kaolin (ka′o-lin)

Hydrated aluminum silicate; when powdered and freed from gritty particles by elution, k. is used as a demulcent and adsorbent; in dentistry, it is used to add toughness and opacity to porcelain teeth. SYN: aluminum silicate. [Ch. kao lin, High Ridge, name of a locality in China where the substance is found in abundance]

kaolinosis
kaolinosis (ka′o-lin-o′sis)

Pneumonoconiosis caused by the inhalation of clay dust.

Kaposi
Kaposi

Moritz, (born Moritz Kohn), Hungarian dermatologist in Austria, 1837–1902. See K. varicelliform eruption, K. sarcoma.

kappa
kappa (κ) (kap′a)

1. The tenth letter in the Greek alphabet. 2. In chemistry, denotes the position of a substituent located on the tenth atom from the carboxyl or other functional group. 3. A measure of the degree of nonrandom agreement between observers or measurements of the same categorical variable.

kappacism
kappacism (kap′a-sizm)

Faulty pronunciation of the “k” sound. [G. kappa, the letter κ]

Karman cannula
Karman cannula

See under cannula.

Karmen
Karmen

Albert, U.S. internist and clinical pathologist, *1930. See K. unit.

Karnofsky
Karnofsky

David A., 20th century U.S. physician, &dag;1970. See K. scale.

Kartagener
Kartagener

Manes, Swiss physician, 1897–1975. See K. syndrome, K. triad.

karyo- karyo-

Nucleus. Cf.:nucleo-. [G. karyon, nucleus]

karyochrome
karyochrome (kar′e-o-krom)

A nerve cell body having little or no Nissl substance visible but a nucleus that stains intensely. [karyo- + G. chroma, color]

karyoclasis
karyoclasis (kar-e-ok′la-sis)

SYN: karyorrhexis. [karyo- + G. klasis, a breaking]

karyocyte
karyocyte (kar′e-o-sit)

A young, immature normoblast. [karyo- + G. kytos, cell]

karyogamic
karyogamic (kar-e-o-gam′ik)

Relating to or marked by karyogamy.

karyogamy
karyogamy (kar-e-og′a-me)

Fusion of the nuclei of two cells, as occurs in fertilization or true conjugation. [karyo- + G. gamos, marriage]

karyogenesis
karyogenesis (kar-e-o-jen′e-sis)

Formation of the nucleus of a cell. [karyo- + G. genesis, production]

karyogenic
karyogenic (kar-e-o-jen′ik)

Relating to karyogenesis; forming the nucleus.

karyogonad
karyogonad (kar′e-o-go′nad)

SYN: micronucleus (2) . [karyo- + G. gone, generation, descent]

karyogram
karyogram (kar′e-o-gram)

SYN: karyotype.

karyology
karyology (kar′e-ol′o-je)

The branch of cytology that deals with the study of the cell nucleus, its organelles, structures, and functions. [karyo + -logy]

karyolymph
karyolymph (kar′e-o-limf)

The presumably fluid substance or gel of the nucleus in which stainable elements were believed to be suspended; much that was formerly considered to be k. is now known to be euchromatin. SYN: nuclear hyaloplasm, nuclear sap, nucleochylema, nucleochyme. [karyo- + L. lympha, clear water]

karyolysis
karyolysis (kar-e-ol′i-sis)

Apparent destruction of the nucleus of a cell by swelling and the loss of affinity of its chromatin for basic dyes. [karyo- + G. lysis, dissolution]

karyolytic
karyolytic (kar′e-o-lit′ik)

Relating to karyolysis.

karyomere
karyomere (kar′e-o-mer′)

A vesicle containing only a small part of the typical nucleus, usually following an abnormal mitosis. [karyo- + G. meros, part]

karyomicrosome
karyomicrosome (kar-e-o-mi′kro-som)

One of the minute particles or granules making up the substance of the cell nucleus. SYN: nucleomicrosome. [karyo- + G. mikros, small, + soma, body]

karyomitome
karyomitome (kar′-e-om-i-tom)

The nuclear chromatin network. [karyo- + mitosis + -ome]

karyomorphism
karyomorphism (kar′e-o-mor′fizm)

1. Development of the nucleus of a cell. 2. Denoting the nuclear shapes of cells, especially leukocytes. [karyo- + G. morphe, form]

karyon
karyon (kar′e-on)

SYN: nucleus (1) . [G. k., a nut, kernel]

karyophage
karyophage (kar′e-o-faj)

An intracellular parasite that feeds on the host nucleus. [karyo- + G. phago, to devour]

karyoplasm
karyoplasm (kar′e-o-plazm)

Rarely used term for nucleoplasm.

karyoplasmolysis
karyoplasmolysis (kar′e-o-plaz-mol′i-sis)

SYN: achromatolysis.

karyoplast
karyoplast (kar′e-o-plast)

A cell nucleus surrounded by a narrow band of cytoplasm and a plasma membrane. [karyo- + G. plastos, formed]

karyoplastin
karyoplastin (kar′e-o-plas′tin)

The achromatic nuclear material that forms the spindle apparatus.

karyopyknosis
karyopyknosis (kar′e-o-pik-no′sis)

Cytologic characteristics of the superficial or cornified cells of stratified squamous epithelium in which there is shrinkage of the nuclei and condensation of the chromatin into structureless masses. [karyo- + G. pyknos, thick, crowded, + -osis, condition]

karyopyknotic
karyopyknotic (kar′e-o-pik-not′ik)

Pertaining to or causing karyopyknosis.

karyorrhexis
karyorrhexis (kar-e-o-rak′sis)

Fragmentation of the nucleus whereby its chromatin is distributed irregularly throughout the cytoplasm; a stage of necrosis usually followed by karyolysis. SYN: karyoclasis. [karyo- + G. rhexis, rupture]

karyosome
karyosome (kar′e-o-som)

A mass of chromatin often found in the interphase cell nucleus representing a more condensed zone of chromatin filaments. SYN: chromatin nucleolus, chromocenter, false nucleolus, net knot. [karyo- + G. soma, body]

karyostasis
karyostasis (kar-e-os′ta-sis)

SYN: interphase. [karyo- + G. stasis, a standing still]

karyotheca
karyotheca (kar′e-o-the′ka)

SYN: nuclear envelope. [karyo- + G. theke, box, sheath]

karyotype
karyotype (kar′e-o-tip)

The chromosome characteristics of an individual cell or of a cell line, usually presented as a systematized array of metaphase chromosomes from a photomicrograph of a single cell nucleus arranged in pairs in descending order of size and according to the position of the centromere. SYN: idiogram (1) , karyogram. [karyo- + G. typos, model]

karyozoic
karyozoic (kar′e-o-zo′ik)

Denoting a parasite inhabiting the cell nucleus of its host. [karyo- + G. zoon, animal]

Kasabach
Kasabach

Haig H., U.S. physician, 1898–1943. See K.-Merritt syndrome.

Kasai
Kasai

Morio, Japanese surgeon. See K. operation.

kasai
kasai (ka-si′)

A form of anemia occurring in the Congo River region, with associated edema of subcutaneous tissues, depigmented regions in the skin, and various gastrointestinal disturbances; thought to result from deficiencies in nutrition. SYN: Belgian Congo anemia.

Kashin
Kashin

Nikolai I., Russian orthopedist, 1825–1872. See K.-Bek disease.

Kasten
Kasten

Frederick H., U.S. histochemist and cell biologist, *1927. See K. fluorescent Schiff reagents, under reagent, K. fluorescent Feulgen stain, K. fluorescent PAS stain.

kat
kat

Abbreviation for katal.

kata- kata-

Alternative spelling for cata-; down. [G. kata, down]

katal
katal (kat) (kat′al)

Unit of catalytic activity equal to 1 mol of product formed (or substrate consumed) per second, as of the amount of enzyme that catalyzes transformation of 1 mol of substrate per second.

katathermometer
katathermometer (kat′a-ther-mom′e-ter)

An alcohol-filled thermometer of specified design that is heated above ambient temperature and then allowed to cool; the time taken to cool between specified temperatures is a measure of the heat content of the environment that takes into account air movement as well as temperature. The bulb may be silvered to minimize radiation effects or blackened to maximize them.

Katayama
Katayama

Kunika, Japanese physician, 1856–1931. See K. fever, K. test.

kathexis
kathexis

A rare disorder characterized by bone marrow retention of myeloid elements leading to severe peripheral neutropenia; neutrophils have a distinctly abnormal appearance; Gm-CSF levels are undetectable and administration of this substance is therapeutically effective. SYN: myelokathexis.

Katz
Katz

Sir Bernard, German-British neurophysiologist and Nobel laureate, *1911. See Goldman-Hodgkin-K. equation.

kava
kava (kah′vah)

1. SYN: methysticum. 2. SYN: yaqona. [Tongan and Marquesan, Litter]

Kawasaki
Kawasaki

Tomisaku, 20th century Japanese pediatrician. See K. disease, K. syndrome.

Kay
Kay

Herbert D., British biochemist, *1893. See Jenner-K. unit.

Kayser
Kayser

Bernhard, German physician, 1869–1954. See K.-Fleischer ring.

Kazanjian
Kazanjian

Varaztad H., Armenian otorhinolaryngologist in the U.S., 1879–1974. See K. operation.

kb
kb

Abbreviation for kilobase.

K blood group
K blood group, k blood group

See Kell blood group, Blood Groups appendix.

kc
kc

Abbreviation for kilocycle.

kcal
kcal

Abbreviation for kilogram calorie; kilocalorie.

Kearns
Kearns

Thomas P., U.S. ophthalmologist, *1922. See K.-Sayre syndrome.

Keating-Hart
Keating-Hart

Walter V., French physician, 1870–1922. See Keating-Hart method.

keel
keel (kel)

Paratyphoid or salmonellosis of ducklings.

Keen
Keen

William W., U.S. surgeon, 1837–1932. See K. operation.

Kegel
Kegel

A.H., 20th century U.S. gynecologist. See K. exercises, under exercise.

Kehr
Kehr

Hans, German surgeon, 1862–1916. See K. sign.

Keith
Keith

Sir Arthur, Scottish anatomist, 1866–1955. See K. bundle, K. node, K. and Flack node.

kelectome
kelectome (ke′lek-tom)

An instrument used, like the harpoon, to remove a specimen of tumor substance for examination. [G. kele, tumor, + ektome, excision]

Kell blood group
Kell blood group

See Blood Groups appendix.

Keller
Keller

William Lordan, U.S. surgeon, 1874–1959. See K. bunionectomy.

Kellie
Kellie

George, 18th century Scottish anatomist. See Monro-K. doctrine.

Kelly
Kelly

Howard A., U.S. gynecologist, 1858–1943. See K. clamp, K. operation, K. rectal speculum.

Kelly
Kelly

Adam B., British otolaryngologist, 1865–1941. See Paterson-K. syndrome, Paterson-Brown-K. syndrome.

keloid
keloid (ke′loyd)

A nodular, firm, movable, nonencapsulated, often linear mass of hyperplastic scar tissue, tender and frequently painful, consisting of wide irregularly distributed bands of collagen; occurs in the dermis and adjacent subcutaneous tissue, usually after trauma, surgery, a burn, or severe cutaneous disease such as cystic acne, and is more common in blacks. SYN: cheloid. [G. kele, a tumor (or kelis, a spot), + eidos, appearance]
acne k. a chronic eruption of fibrous papules that develop at the site of deep folliculitis, usually on the back of the neck at the hairline. SYN: folliculitis keloidalis.

keloidosis
keloidosis (ke′loy-do′sis)

Multiple keloids.

kelosomia
kelosomia (ke-lo-so′me-a)

SYN: celosomia.

Kelvin
Kelvin

Lord William Thomson, Scottish physicist, 1824–1907. See k., K. scale.

kelvin
kelvin (K)

A unit of thermodynamic temperature equal to 273.16⁻¹ of the thermodynamic temperature of the triple point of water. See K. scale. [Lord K.]

Kendall
Kendall

J., 20th century U.S. pathologist. See Abell-K. method.

Kendall Kendall

See Abell-K. method.

Kennedy
Kennedy

Edward, U.S. dentist, *1883. See K. classification.

Kennedy
Kennedy

Robert Foster, U.S. neurologist, 1884–1952. See K. syndrome, Foster K. syndrome.

Kennedy
Kennedy

William, U.S. neurologist. See K. disease.

Kenny
Kenny

Elizabeth, Australian nurse, 1880–1952. See K. treatment.

keno- keno-

See ceno- (3) . [G. kenos, empty]

Kent
Kent

Albert F.S., English physiologist, 1863–1958. See K. bundle, K.-His bundle.

kephalin
kephalin (kef′a-lin)

SYN: cephalin.

Kerandel
Kerandel

Jean F., French physician, 1873–1934. See K. sign.

kerasin
kerasin (ker′a-sin)

Obsolete term for glucocerebroside. SYN: cerasin.

kerat- kerat-

See kerato-.

keratan sulfate
keratan sulfate (ker′a-tan)

A type of sulfated mucopolysaccharide containing d-galactose in place of the uronic acid of hyaluronic acid or chondroitin; also containing unsulfated and 6-sulfated N-acetyl-d-glucosamine; found in cartilage, bone, connective tissue, the cornea, aorta, and in the intervertebral disks; accumulates in Morquio syndrome; k. I is abundant in cornea and is attached to a protein via an asparaginyl residue; k. II is found in loose connective tissue and bone and is linked to a seryl or threonyl residue. SYN: keratosulfate.

keratectasia
keratectasia (ker-a-tek-ta′ze-a)

SYN: keratoectasia. [kerato- + G. ektasis, extrusion]

keratectomy
keratectomy (ker-a-tek′to-me)

An operation done to change the refraction of the cornea; a crescentic piece of corneal stroma is removed and the resultant corneal wound is sutured. This steepens the cornea and increases its power in that axis. SEE ALSO: keratotomy. [kerato- + G. ektome, excision]
automated lamellar k. resection of a disk of corneal tissue using a precise machine to alter the refractive power of the eye.
photorefractive k. (PRK) removal of part of the cornea with a laser to change its shape, and thus to modify the refractive error of the eye (reduce its myopia, for example).
phototherapeutic k. (PTK) ablation of diseased corneal tissue using an excimer laser.

keratein
keratein (ker′a-te-in)

The easily digested reduction product of keratin, in which the disulfide links are reduced to SH groups, the individual peptide chains being separated.

keratin
keratin (ker′a-tin)

Collective name for a group of proteins that form the intermediate filaments in epithelial cells. Keratins have a molecular weight between 40 kd and 68 kd, and are separated one from another by electrophoresis and isoelectric focusing; thus separated, they are sequentially numbered from 1–20, and also subdivided into low, intermediate, and high molecular weight proteins. According to their isoelectric mobility they are either acidic or basic. In general, each acidic k. protein has its basic equivalent with which it is paired to form the intermediate filaments; some k. proteins, however, occur unpaired. Various epithelial cells contain different k. proteins, in a tissue-specific manner. Antibodies to k. proteins are widely used for histologic typing of tumors, and are especially useful for distinguishing carcinomas from sarcomas, lymphomas, and melanomas. SYN: ceratin, cytokeratin. [G. keras (kerat-), horn, + -in]

keratinases
keratinases (ker′a-tin-as-ez)

Hydrolases catalyzing the hydrolysis of keratin; each having slightly different specificities.

keratinization
keratinization (ker′a-tin-i-za′shun)

Keratin formation or development of a horny layer; may also apply to premature formation of keratin. SYN: cornification.

keratinized
keratinized (ker′a-ti-nizd)

Having become horny. SYN: cornified.

keratinocyte
keratinocyte (ke-rat′i-no-sit)

A cell of the living epidermis and certain oral epithelium that produces keratin in the process of differentiating into the dead and fully keratinized cells of the stratum corneum.

keratinophilic
keratinophilic (ke-rat′i-no-fil′ik)

Denoting fungi that use keratin as a substrata, e.g., dermatophytes. [keratin + Gr. philos, love, attraction, + -ic]

keratinosome
keratinosome (ke-rat′i-no-som)

A membrane-bound granule, 100 to 500 nm in diameter, located in the upper layers of the stratum spinosum of certain stratified squamous epithelia. SYN: lamellar granule, membrane-coating granule, Odland body.

keratinous
keratinous (ke-rat′i-nus)

1. Relating to keratin. 2. SYN: horny.

keratitis
keratitis (ker-a-ti′tis)

Inflammation of the cornea. SEE ALSO: keratopathy. [kerato- + G. -itis, inflammation]
actinic k. a reaction of the cornea to ultraviolet light.
deep punctate k. sharply defined opacities in an otherwise clear cornea, occurring in syphilitic iritis.
dendriform k., dendritic k. a form of herpetic k..
diffuse deep k. SYN: k. profunda.
Dimmer k. SYN: k. nummularis.
disciform k. large disk-shaped infiltration of the central or paracentral corneal stroma. This lesion is deep and nonsuppurative and is seen in virus infections, particularly herpetic. SYN: k. disciformis.
k. disciformis SYN: disciform k..
exposure k. inflammation of the cornea resulting from irritation caused by inability to close the eyelids. SYN: lagophthalmic k..
fascicular k. a phlyctenular k. followed by the formation of a band or fascicle of blood vessels extending from the margin toward the center.
filamentary k. a condition characterized by the formation of epithelial filaments of varying size and length on the corneal surface. SYN: k. filamentosa.
k. filamentosa SYN: filamentary k..
geographic k. k. with coalescence of superficial lesions in herpes k..
herpetic k. inflammation of the cornea (or cornea and conjunctiva) due to herpes simplex virus. SYN: herpes corneae, herpetic keratoconjunctivitis.
interstitial k. an inflammation of the corneal stroma, often with neovascularization.
lagophthalmic k. SYN: exposure k..
k. linearis migrans a deep, linear corneal opacity stretching from limbus to limbus; associated with congenital syphilis.
marginal k. a corneal inflammation at the limbus.
metaherpetic k. a postinfectious corneal inflammation in herpetic k. leading to epithelial erosion; not due to virus replication.
mycotic k. an infection of the cornea of the eye caused by a fungus.
necrotizing k. severe inflammation and destruction of corneal tissue that may be seen in response to herpes infection.
neuroparalytic k. SYN: neurotrophic k..
neurotrophic k. inflammation of the cornea after corneal anesthesia. SYN: neuroparalytic k..
k. nummularis coin-shaped or round, discrete, grayish areas 0.5 to 1.5 mm in diameter scattered throughout the various layers of the cornea. SYN: Dimmer k..
phlyctenular k. an inflammation of the corneal conjunctiva with the formation of small red nodules of lymphoid tissue (phlyctenulae) near the corneoscleral limbus. SYN: scrofulous k..
pneumococcal/suppurative k. SYN: serpiginous k..
polymorphic superficial k. epithelial degeneration occurring in starvation.
k. profunda an inflammation of the posterior corneal stroma. SYN: diffuse deep k..
punctate k., k. punctata SYN: keratic precipitates, under precipitate.
sclerosing k. inflammation of the cornea complicating scleritis; characterized by opacification of the corneal stroma.
scrofulous k. SYN: phlyctenular k..
serpiginous k. a severe, creeping, central, suppurative ulcer often due to pneumococci. SYN: pneumococcal/suppurative k., serpent ulcer of cornea.
k. sicca SYN: keratoconjunctivitis sicca.
superficial linear k. spontaneous, painful k. with epithelial erosion and folds in Bowman membrane.
superficial punctate k. epithelial punctate k. associated with viral conjunctivitis. SYN: Thygeson disease.
trachomatous k. pannus, corneal pannus.
vascular k. superficial cellular infiltration of the cornea and neovascularization between Bowman membrane and the epithelium.
vesicular k. k. with coalescence of areas of epithelial corneal edema.
xerotic k. SYN: keratomalacia.

kerato- kerato-, kerat-

1. The cornea. 2. Horny tissue or cells. SEE ALSO: cerat-, cerato-. [G. keras, horn]

keratoacanthoma
keratoacanthoma (ker′a-to-ak′an-tho′ma)

A rapidly growing tumor that may be umbilicated, and usually occurs on exposed areas of the skin in elderly white men, which invades the dermis but remains localized and usually resolves spontaneously if untreated; microscopically, the nodule is composed of well-differentiated squamous epithelium with a central keratin mass that opens on the skin surface. [kerato- + G. akantha, thorn, +-oma, tumor]

keratoangioma
keratoangioma (ker′a-to-an-je-o′ma)

SYN: angiokeratoma.

keratocele
keratocele (ker′a-to-sel)

Hernia of Descemet membrane through a defect in the outer layers of the cornea. [kerato- + G. kele, hernia]

keratoconjunctivitis
keratoconjunctivitis (ker′a-to-kon-jungk′ti-vi′tis)

Inflammation of the conjunctiva and of the cornea.
atopic k. a chronic papillary inflammation, of the conjunctiva showing Trantas dots in a patient with a history of atopy.
epidemic k. follicular conjunctivitis followed by subepithelial corneal infiltrates; often caused by adenovirus type 8, less commonly by other types. SYN: virus k..
flash k. SYN: ultraviolet k..
herpetic k. SYN: herpetic keratitis.
microsporidian k. a form of k. often associated with immunosuppressed persons, such as those suffering from AIDS.
k. sicca k. associated with decreased tears. SEE ALSO: Sjögren syndrome. SYN: dry eye syndrome, keratitis sicca.
superior limbic k. inflammatory edema of the superior corneoscleral limbus.
ultraviolet k. acute k. resulting from exposure to intense ultraviolet irradiation. SYN: actinic conjunctivitis, arc-flash conjunctivitis, flash k., ophthalmia nivalis, snow conjunctivitis, welder's conjunctivitis.
vernal k. SYN: vernal conjunctivitis.
virus k. SYN: epidemic k..

keratoconus
keratoconus (ker′a-to-ko′nus)

A conical protrusion of the cornea caused by thinning of the stroma; usually bilateral. SEE ALSO: Fleischer ring, Munson sign. SYN: conical cornea. [kerato- + G. konos, cone]
circumscribed posterior k. congenital corneal defect characterized by a craterlike defect on the posterior corneal surface.

keratocricoid
keratocricoid (ker′a-to-kri′koyd)

SYN: ceratocricoid.

keratocyst
keratocyst (ker′a-to-sist)

Odontogenic cyst derived from remnants of the dental lamina and appearing as a unilocular or multilocular radiolucency which may produce jaw expansion; epithelial lining is characterized microscopically by a uniform thickness, a corrugated superficial layer of parakeratin, and a prominent basal layer composed of palisaded columnar cells; associated with the bifid rib basal cell nevus syndrome.
odontogenic k. (ke-ra′to-sist) a cyst of dental lamina origin with a high recurrence rate and well-defined histologic criteria of a corrugated parakeratin surface, uniformly thin epithelium, and a palisaded basal layer. One manifestation of the basal cell nevus syndrome.

keratocyte
keratocyte (ker′a-to-sit)

The fibroblastic stromal cell of the cornea.

keratoderma
keratoderma (ker′a-to-der′ma)

1. Any horny superficial growth. 2. A generalized thickening of the horny layer of the epidermis. [kerato- + G. derma, skin]
k. blennorrhagica SYN: keratosis blennorrhagica.
k. blennorrhagicum (blen-o-raj′i-kum) the scattered, thickened, hyperkeratotic skin lesions seen in Reiter syndrome.
lymphedematous k. SYN: mossy foot.
mutilating k. [MIM*124500] diffuse k. of the extremities, with the development during childhood of constricting fibrous bands around the middle phalanx of the fingers or toes that may lead to spontaneous amputation; there may be congenital deafness; autosomal dominant inheritance, caused by mutation in the gene for loricrin (LOR), a component of the epidermal differentiation complex on 1q. SYN: keratoma hereditarium mutilans, Vohwinkel syndrome.
k. palmaris et plantaris SYN: palmoplantar k..
palmoplantar k. [MIM*148600 & MIM*244850] the occurrence of symmetrical diffuse or patchy areas of hypertrophy of the horny layer of the epidermis on the palms and soles; a group of ectodermal dysplasias of considerable variety, and either autosomal dominant or recessive inheritance. SYN: ichthyosis palmaris et plantaris, k. palmaris et plantaris, k. symmetrica, keratoma plantare sulcatum, keratosis palmaris et plantaris, tylosis palmaris et plantaris.
k. plantare sulcatum hyperkeratosis and fissure formation on the soles. SYN: cracked heel.
punctate k. [MIM*175860] horny papules over the palms, soles, and digits that develop central plugs; seen commonly in blacks; autosomal dominant inheritance. SYN: keratoma disseminatum, keratosis punctata.
senile k. SYN: actinic keratosis.
k. symmetrica SYN: palmoplantar k..
type III punctate palmoplantar k. SYN: acrokeratoelastoidosis.

keratodermatitis
keratodermatitis (ker′a-to-der-ma-ti′tis)

Inflammation with proliferation of the horny layer of the skin. [kerato- + G. derma, skin, + -itis, inflammation]

keratoectasia
keratoectasia (ker′a-to-ek-ta′ze-a)

A bulging forward of the cornea. SYN: corneal ectasia, keratectasia.

keratoelastoidosis
keratoelastoidosis (ker′a-to-a-las′toy-do-sis)

Hyperkeratosis and degeneration of dermal elastic tissue. SEE ALSO: acrokeratoelastoidosis. [kerato- + Mod. L. elasticus, elastic, fr. G. elastikos, propulsive, fr. elauno, to drive + eidos, resemblance, + suffix -osis, condition]
k. marginalis (mar-gin-al′is) hyperkeratosis and solar elastosis presenting as linear papules along the junction of the palms and dorsal surface of the hands in the elderly. [L. marginal]

keratoepithelioplasty
keratoepithelioplasty (ker′a-to-ep-i-the′le-o-plas-te)

A surgical procedure for the repair of persistent corneal epithelial defects. All corneal epithelium is removed from the recipient cornea, and small pieces of donor cornea, with epithelium attached, are placed at the corneoscleral limbus. The donor corneal eplithelium grows and spreads out to cover the recipient cornea. [kerato- + epithelio- + G. plastos, formed]

keratogenesis
keratogenesis (ker′a-to-jen′e-sis)

Production or origin of horny cells or tissue. [kerato- + G. genesis, production]

keratogenetic
keratogenetic (ker′a-to-je-net′ik)

Relating to keratogenesis.

keratogenous
keratogenous (ker-a-toj′e-nus)

Causing a growth of cells that produce keratin and result in the formation of horny tissue, such as fingernails, scales, feathers, etc.

keratoglobus
keratoglobus (ker-a-to-glo′bus)

Congenital anomaly consisting of an enlarged anterior segment of the eye. SYN: anterior megalophthalmos, megalocornea. [kerato- + L. globus, ball]

keratography
keratography (ker′ah-tog′ra-fe)

A record or portrayal of the cornea. See photokeratoscope, videokeratoscope. [kerato- + G. grapho, to write]

keratohyal
keratohyal (ker′a-to-hi′al)

SYN: ceratohyal.

keratohyalin
keratohyalin (ker′a-to-hi′a-lin)

The substance in the large basophilic granules of the stratum granulosum of the epidermis rich in proline and sulfhydryl groups. [kerato- + hyalin]

keratoid
keratoid (ker′a-toyd)

Resembling corneal tissue. [kerato- + G. eidos, resemblance]

keratoleptynsis
keratoleptynsis (ker′a-to-lep-tin′sis)

1. SYN: gutter dystrophy of cornea. 2. An operation for removing the surface of the cornea and replacement by bulbar conjunctiva for cosmetic reasons. [kerato- + G. leptynsis, a making thin]

keratoleukoma
keratoleukoma (ker′a-to-loo-ko′ma)

A white corneal opacity. [kerato- + G. leukos, white, + -oma, growth]

keratolysis
keratolysis (ker-a-tol′i-sis)

1. Separation or loosening of the horny layer of the epidermis. 2. Specifically, a disease characterized by a shedding of the epidermis recurring at more or less regular intervals. SYN: deciduous skin. [kerato- + G. lysis, loosening]
k. exfoliativa [MIM*270300] familial continual noninflammatory skin peeling characterized by a separation of stratum corneum in leaflike flakes occurring everywhere except on the palms and soles; autosomal recessive inheritance. SYN: erythema exfoliativa.
pitted k. noninflammatory Gram-positive bacterial infection of the plantar surfaces producing small depressions in the stratum corneum, associated frequently with humidity and hyperhidrosis. SYN: k. plantare sulcatum.
k. plantare sulcatum SYN: pitted k..

keratolytic
keratolytic (ker′a-to-lit′ik)

Relating to keratolysis.

keratoma
keratoma (ker-a-to′ma)

1. SYN: callosity. 2. A horny tumor. [kerato- + G. -oma, tumor]
k. disseminatum SYN: punctate keratoderma.
k. hereditarium mutilans SYN: mutilating keratoderma.
k. plantare sulcatum SYN: palmoplantar keratoderma.
senile k. SYN: actinic keratosis.

keratomalacia
keratomalacia (ker′a-to-ma-la′she-a)

Dryness with ulceration and perforation of the cornea, with absence of inflammatory reactions, occurring in cachectic children; results from severe vitamin A deficiency. SYN: xerotic keratitis. [kerato- + G. malakia, softness]

keratome
keratome (ker′a-tom)

A knife used for incising the cornea. SYN: keratotome.

keratometer
keratometer (ker-a-tom′e-ter)

An instrument for measuring the curvature of the anterior corneal surface. SYN: ophthalmometer. [kerato- + G. metron, measure]

keratometry
keratometry (ker-a-tom′e-tre)

Measurement of the radii of corneal curvature.

keratomileusis
keratomileusis (ker′a-to-mi-loo′sis)

Surgical alteration of refractive error by changing the shape of a deep layer of the cornea: the anterior lamella is peeled back, frozen, and recarved on its back surface on a lathe; or, some of the corneal stroma can be removed from the bed with a laser or a knife. [coinage, prob. fr. G. keras (kerat-), horn, cornea, + smileusis, carving]
laser-assisted in situ k. (LASIK) a refractive procedure to correct myopia by which a flap of cornea is made, excimer laser ablation of corneal stoma is performed, and the flap laid back in position.

keratomycosis
keratomycosis (ker-a-to-mi-ko′sis)

Fungal infection of the cornea.

keratonosis
keratonosis (ker′a-to-no′sis)

Any abnormal noninflammatory, usually hypertrophic, affection of the horny layer of the skin. [kerato- + G. -osis, condition]

keratopachyderma
keratopachyderma (ker′a-to-pak-i-der′ma)

A syndrome of congenital deafness with development of hyperkeratosis of the skin of the palms, soles, elbows, and knees in childhood, and with bandlike constrictions of the fingers. [kerato- + G. pachys, thick, + derma, skin]

keratopathia
keratopathia (ker′a-to-path′e-a)

SYN: keratopathy.
k. guttata wartlike endothelial excrescence on the posterior surface of the cornea.

keratopathy
keratopathy (ker-a-top′a-the)

Any corneal disease, damage, dysfunction, or abnormality. SYN: keratopathia. [kerato- + G. pathos, suffering, disease]
band-shaped k. a horizontal, gray, interpalpebral opacity of the cornea that begins at the periphery and progresses centrally; occurs in hypercalcemia, chronic iridocyclitis, and Still disease.
bullous k. edema of the corneal stroma and epithelium; occurs in Fuchs endothelial dystrophy, advanced glaucoma, iridocyclitis, and sometimes after intraocular lens implantation.
chronic actinic k. SYN: climatic k..
climatic k. a bilateral, symmetrical corneal dystrophy caused by prolonged exposure to extremes of heat or cold; nodular opacities are limited to the interpalpebral area and vision is only mildly affected. SYN: chronic actinic k., climatic droplike k., Labrador k., spheroidal degeneration.
climatic droplike k. SYN: climatic k..
filamentary k. formation of fine elongations of corneal epithelium in inflammation, edema, and degenerative states.
infectious crystalline k. fernlike, needle-shaped deposits that may be seen in bacterial keratitis, particularly that due to α-hemolytic streptococci, under streptococcus.
Labrador k. SYN: climatic k..
lipid k. occurrence of fats in an area of corneal vascularization.
neuroparalytic k. corneal inflammation or ulceration associated with dysfunction of the ophthalmic branch of the trigeminal nerve.
striate k. corneal stromal edema with formation of criss-cross tracts.
vesicular k. corneal epithelial edema with formation of vacuoles.

keratophakia
keratophakia (ker′a-to-fak′e-a)

Implantation of a donor cornea or plastic lens within the corneal stroma to modify refractive error. SYN: keratophakic keratoplasty. [kerato- + G. phakos, lens]

keratoplasia
keratoplasia (ker′a-to-pla′ze-a)

The formation or renewal of a horny layer. [kerato- + G. plasso; to fashion]

keratoplasty
keratoplasty (ker′a-to-plas-te)

Any surgical modification of the cornea; the removal of a portion of the cornea containing an opacity and the insertion in its place of a piece of cornea of the same size and shape removed from elsewhere. SYN: corneal graft, corneal transplantation, corneal trepanation, trepanation of cornea, transplantation of cornea. [kerato- + G. plasso, to form]
allopathic k. corneal transplant with donor material of glass, plastic, or other inert material.
autogenous k. corneal transplant with donor material from the same individual.
epikeratophakic k. SYN: epikeratophakia.
heterogenous k. corneal transplant with donor material from another species.
homogenous k. corneal transplant with donor material from another individual of the same species.
keratophakic k. SYN: keratophakia.
lamellar k., layered k. SYN: nonpenetrating k..
nonpenetrating k. k. in which only the anterior layer of the cornea is used (not a tectonic k.). SYN: lamellar k., layered k..
optical k. transplantation of transparent corneal tissue to replace a leukoma or scar that impairs vision.
penetrating k. corneal transplant with replacement of all layers of the cornea, but retaining the peripheral cornea. SYN: perforating k..
perforating k. SYN: penetrating k..
refractive k. any procedure in which the shape of the cornea is modified, with the intent of changing the refractive error of the eye; for example, if the cornea is flattened, the eye becomes less myopic. See photorefractive keratectomy, keratophakia, lamellar k., thermokeratoplasty, keratomileusis, radial keratotomy. SYN: keratorefractive surgery.
tectonic k. grafting to replace lost corneal tissue.
total k. corneal transplant in which the entire cornea is removed and replaced.

keratoprosthesis
keratoprosthesis (ker′a-to-pros-the′sis)

Replacement of the central area of an opacified cornea by plastic. [kerato- + G. prosthesis, addition]

keratorhexis
keratorhexis, keratorrhexis (ker′a-to-rek′sis)

Rupture of the cornea, due to trauma or perforating ulcer. [kerato- + G. rhexis, a bursting]

keratorus
keratorus (ker-a-to′rus)

Vaultlike corneal herniation with severe regular myopic astigmatism. [kerat- + L. torus, swelling, knot, bulge]

keratoscleritis
keratoscleritis (ker′a-to-skle-ri′tis)

Inflammation of both cornea and sclera.

keratoscope
keratoscope (ker′a-to-skop)

An instrument marked with lines or circles by means of which the corneal reflex can be observed. SYN: Placido da Costa disk. [kerato- + G. skopeo, to examine]

keratoscopy
keratoscopy (ker-a-tos′ko-pe)

1. Examination of the reflections from the anterior surface of the cornea in order to determine the character and amount of corneal astigmatism. 2. A term first applied by Cuignet to his method of retinoscopy. [kerato- + G. skopeo, to examine]

keratosis
keratosis, pl .keratoses (ker-a-to′sis, -sez)

Any lesion on the epidermis marked by the presence of circumscribed overgrowths of the horny layer. [kerato- + G. -osis, condition]
actinic k. a premalignant warty lesion occurring on the sun-exposed skin of the face or hands in aged light-skinned persons; hyperkeratosis may form a cutaneous horn, and squamous cell carcinoma of low-grade malignancy may develop in a small proportion of untreated patients. SYN: senile keratoderma, senile keratoma, senile k., k. senilis, senile wart, solar k., verruca plana senilis, verruca senilis.
arsenical k. multiple punctate keratoses, most commonly of the palms and soles but also of the fingers and proximal portions of the extremities, resulting from long-term arsenic ingestion; they resemble Bowen disease microscopically and may become squamous cell or basal cell carcinoma.
k. blennorrhagica pustules and crusts associated with Reiter syndrome. SYN: keratoderma blennorrhagica.
k. follicularis [MIM*124200] an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by eruption, beginning usually in late childhood, in which keratotic papules originating from both follicles and interfollicular epidermis of the trunk, face, scalp, and axillae become crusted and verrucous; the papules are often intensely pruritic. Microscopically, dyskeratotic cells termed corps ronds are seen in the epidermis. Longitudinal nail bands are frequent. SYN: Darier disease.
inverted follicular k. a solitary benign epithelial tumor of infundibular hair follicle origin occurring on the face, consisting of a lobulated epidermal downgrowth of keratinizing squamous cells with a pattern of eddies or whorls.
k. labialis thickening of stratum corneum on the lips.
lichenoid k. a solitary benign papule or plaque, with microscopic features resembling lichen planus, occurring on sun-exposed or unexposed skin. SYN: lichen planus-like k..
lichen planus-like k. SYN: lichenoid k..
k. obturans an accretion of epithelia in the external auditory canal. SYN: laminated epithelial plug.
k. palmaris et plantaris SYN: palmoplantar keratoderma.
k. pilaris a common benign eruption consisting of scaly papules of the follicles; primarily affects the extensor surfaces of the arms and thighs.
k. pilaris atrophicans faciei erythema and horny plugs of outer portions of the eyebrows with destruction of follicles; onset in early infancy.
k. punctata SYN: punctate keratoderma.
seborrheic k., k. seborrheica superficial, benign, verrucous, often pigmented, greasy lesions consisting of proliferating epidermal cells, resembling basal cells, enclosing horn cysts; they usually occur after the third decade. SYN: basal cell papilloma, seborrheic verruca.
senile k., k. senilis SYN: actinic k..
solar k. SYN: actinic k..
tar k. warty lesions of the face and hands resulting from repeated, prolonged exposure to tar and pitch; also occurs as keratoacanthoma-like lesions that can become malignant, particularly on the scrotum.

keratosulfate
keratosulfate (ker′a-to-sul-fat)

SYN: keratan sulfate.

keratotome
keratotome (ker′a-to-tom)

SYN: keratome.

keratotomy
keratotomy (ker′a-tot′o-me)

1. Any incision through the cornea. 2. An operation making a partial thickness incision into the cornea to flatten it and reduce its refractive power in that meridian. [kerato- + G. tome, incision]
delimiting k. incision in the cornea along the margin of an advancing ulcer.
radial k. a k. with radial incisions around a clear central zone. A form of refractive keratoplasty used in the treatment of myopia.
refractive k. modification of corneal curvature by means of corneal incisions to minimize hyperopia, myopia, or astigmatism.

keraunophobia
keraunophobia (ke-raw′no-fo′be-a)

Morbid fear of thunder and lightning. [G. keraunos, thunderbolt, + phobos, fear]

Kerckring
Kerckring (Kerckringius)

Theodor, Dutch anatomist, 1640–1693. See K. center, K. folds, under fold, ossicle, K. valves, under valve.

kerion
kerion (ke′re-on)

A granulomatous secondarily infected lesion complicating fungal infection of the hair; typically, a raised boggy lesion. [G. k., honeycomb; a skin disease, fr. keros, beeswax]

Kerley
Kerley

Peter J., English radiologist, 1900–1979. See K. B lines, under line.

kernel
kernel (ker′nel)

The central portion of the software expression of a mathematical algorithm, as in computed tomography. [O.E. cyrnel, a little corn]

kernicterus
kernicterus (ker-nik′ter-us)

Jaundice associated with high levels of unconjugated bilirubin, or in small premature infants with more modest degrees of bilirubinemia; yellow staining and degenerative lesions are found chiefly in basal ganglia including in the lenticular nucleus, subthalamus, Ammon horn, and other areas; may occur with hemolytic disorder such as Rh or ABO erythroblastosis or G6PD deficiency as well as with neonatal sepsis or Crigler-Najjar syndrome; characterized early clinically by opisthotonus, high-pitched cry, lethargy, and poor sucking, as well as abnormal or absent Moro reflex, and loss of upward gaze; later consequences include deafness, cerebral palsy, other sensineural deficits, and mental retardation. SYN: bilirubin encephalopathy, nuclear jaundice. [Ger. Kern, kernel (nucleus), + Ikterus, jaundice]

Kernig
Kernig

Vladimir, Russian physician, 1840–1917. See K. sign.

Kernohan
Kernohan

James W., U.S. pathologist, 1896–1981. See K. notch.

kerosene
kerosene (ker′o-sen)

A mixture of petroleum hydrocarbons, chiefly of the methane series; the fifth fraction in the distillation of petroleum, used as fuel for lamps and stoves, as a degreaser and cleaner, and in insecticides. Contact on human skin can lead to irritation and infection; inhalation may cause headache, drowsiness, coma; swallowing causes irritation, vomiting, and diarrhea. Vomiting should not be induced, as aspiration of vomitus causes pneumonitis. [G. keros, wax, + -ene]

Kerr
Kerr

Harry Hyland, U.S. surgeon, 1881–1963. See Parker-K. suture.

Kestenbaum
Kestenbaum

Alfred, U.S. ophthalmologist, 1890–1961. See K. sign, K. number, K. procedure.

ketal
ketal (ke′tal)

RC(OR′)(R&dprime;)OR‴;a hydrated ketone in which both hydroxyl groups are esterified with alcohols.

ketamine
ketamine (ket′a-men)

A parenterally administered anesthetic that produces catatonia, profound analgesia, increased sympathetic activity, and little relaxation of skeletal muscles; side effects include sialorrhea and occasional pronounced dysphoria, especially in adults; chemically related to phencyclidine (PCP), it can produce hallucinations.

ketanserin
ketanserin (ket-an′ser-in)

Specific serotonin 5HT₂-receptor antagonist with antihypertensive properties; the drug also reduces platelet aggregation produced by serotonin.

ketene
ketene (ke′ten)

1. CH₂&dbond;C&dbond;O;a very reactive acetylating agent, used in chemical syntheses. 2. Any substituted k..

ketimine
ketimine (ke′ta-men)

R&cbond;N&dbond;C(R′)(R′′);a tautomer of an aldimine, formed in many enzyme-catalyze reactions; e.g., aminotransferases.

keto- keto-

Combining form denoting a compound containing a ketone group; replaced by oxo- in systematic nomenclature. [Ger.]

keto acid
keto acid (ke′to)

An acid containing a ketone group (–CO–) in addition to the acid group(s); α-k. refers to a 2-oxo acid ( e.g., pyruvic acid); β-k. refers to a 3-oxo acid ( e.g., acetoacetic acid), etc. SYN: oxo acid.
α-k. dehydrogenase one of several distinct multienzyme complexes that catalyzes the formation of an acyl-CoA derivative, CO₂, and NADH from an α-k., NAD⁺, and coenzyme A; maple syrup urine disease results from several different inherited defects in the mitochondrial branched chain α-k. dehydrogenase complex.

3-ketoacid-CoA transferase
3-ketoacid-CoA transferase

SYN: 3-oxoacid-CoA transferase.

ketoacidemia
ketoacidemia (ke′to-as-id-e′me-a)

SYN: maple syrup urine disease.

ketoacidosis
ketoacidosis (ke′to-as-i-do′sis)

Acidosis, as in diabetes or starvation, caused by the enhanced production of ketone bodies.

ketoaciduria
ketoaciduria (ke′to-as-i-doo′re-a)

Excretion of urine having an elevated content of keto acids.
branched chain k. SYN: maple syrup urine disease.

3-ketoacyl-CoA thiolase
3-ketoacyl-CoA thiolase

SYN: acetyl-CoA acyltransferase.

2-ketoadipic acid
2-ketoadipic acid (ke′to-a-dip′ik)

An intermediate in l-tryptophan and l-lysine catabolism; k. accumulates in certain inherited disorders, probably due to a deficiency of one of the proteins in the α-ketoadipate dehydrogenase complex; 2-oxoadipic acid; 2-oxohexadioic acid.
2-ketoadipic acid dehydrogenase complex the multienzyme complex that reacts k. with coenzyme A and NAD⁺ to produce glutaryl-CoA, CO₂, and NADH + H⁺ in l-lysine and l-tryptophan catabolism; a deficiency of one of the proteins in this complex results in 2-ketoadipic acidemia.

2-ketoadipic acidemia
2-ketoadipic acidemia (ke′to-a-dip′ik)

Elevated levels of 2-ketoadipic acid in the serum.

ketoconazole
ketoconazole (ke-to-ko′na-zol)

A broad spectrum antifungal agent used to treat systemic and topical fungal infections.

ketogenesis
ketogenesis (ke-to-jen′e-sis)

Metabolic production of ketones or ketone bodies.

ketogenic
ketogenic (ke-to-jen′ik)

Giving rise to ketone bodies in metabolism.

ketoheptose
ketoheptose (ke-to-hep′tos)

A seven-carbon sugar possessing a ketone group. SYN: heptulose.

ketohexose
ketohexose (ke-to-heks′os)

A six-carbon sugar possessing a ketone group; e.g., fructose. SYN: hexulose.

ketohydroxyestrin
ketohydroxyestrin (ke′to-hi-drok-se-es′trin)

SYN: estrone.

ketol
ketol (ke′tol)

A ketone that has an OH group near the CO group. In an α-k., the OH is attached to a carbon atom that is attached to the CO carbon atom; in a β-k., one carbon atom intervenes.

ketole
ketole (ke′tol)

SYN: indole (1) .

ketole group
ketole group

Carbons 1 and 2 of a 2-ketose (HOCH₂CO&cbond;); trans-ketolation from d-xylose 5-phosphate to C-1 of aldoses is important in various metabolic pathways involving carbohydrates ( e.g., photosynthesis, Dickens shunt); the two-carbon unit is transferred as α,β-dihydroxyethylthiamin pyrophosphate.

ketolytic
ketolytic (ke-to-lit′ik)

Causing the dissolution of ketone or acetone substances, referring usually to oxidation products of glucose and allied substances.

ketone
ketone (ke′ton)

A substance with the carbonyl group linking two carbon atoms; the most important in medicine and the simplest k. is dimethyl k. (acetone).

ketone alcohol
ketone alcohol

A compound containing a carbonyl or ketone group as well as a hydroxyl group; e.g., dihydroxyacetone.

ketone-aldehyde mutase
ketone-aldehyde mutase

SYN: lactoylglutathione lyase.

ketonemia
ketonemia (ke-to-ne′me-a)

The presence of recognizable concentrations of ketone bodies in the plasma. [ketone + G. haima, blood]

ketonic
ketonic (ke-ton′ik)

Pertaining to, or possessing the characteristics of, a ketone.

ketonization
ketonization (ke-to-ni-za′shun)

Conversion into a ketone.

ketonuria
ketonuria (ke-to-noo′re-a)

Enhanced urinary excretion of ketone bodies.
branched chain k. SYN: maple syrup urine disease.

ketopantoic acid
ketopantoic acid (ke′to-pan-to′ik)

Oxidized precursor of pantoic acid, intermediate on the synthetic pathway between α-ketoisovaleric acid and pantothenic acid.

ketopentose
ketopentose (ke-to-pen′tos)

A five-carbon sugar in which carbons 2, 3, or 4 make up part of a carbonyl group; e.g., ribulose.

ketorolac
ketorolac

A pyrrolo-pyrrole nonsteroidal antiinflammatory agent with antipyretic and analgesic properties; similar in actions to ibuprofen but substantially more potent and capable of relieving severe pain. Often used by injection.

ketose
ketose (ke′tos)

A carbohydrate containing the characteristic carbonyl group of the ketones; i.e., a polyhydroxyketone; e.g., fructose, ribulose, sedoheptulose; the majority of the naturally occurring ketoses have the carbonyl group on the second carbon.

ketose-1-phosphate aldolase
ketose-1-phosphate aldolase

Fructose bisphosphate aldolase.

ketose reductase
ketose reductase

SYN: d-sorbitol-6-phosphate dehydrogenase.

ketosis
ketosis (ke-to′sis)

A condition characterized by the enhanced production of ketone bodies, as in diabetes mellitus or starvation. [ketone + -osis, condition]
bovine k. a common metabolic disease of cows which appears as a rule within a few weeks after parturition; characterized by hypoglycemia, ketonuria, loss of appetite, lethargy, loss of milk production, and rapid emaciation.

17-ketosteroids
17-ketosteroids (17-KS) (ke-to-ster′oydz)

Nominally, any steroid with a carbonyl group on C-17; commonly used to designate urinary C₁₉ steroidal metabolites of androgenic and adrenocortical hormones that possess this structural feature. SYN: 17-oxosteroids.

ketosuccinic acid
ketosuccinic acid (ke-to-suk′si-nik)

SYN: oxaloacetic acid.

ketosuria
ketosuria (ke′to-su′re-a′)

The presence of ketones in the urine.

ketotetrose
ketotetrose (ke′to-tet′ros)

A four-carbon sugar possessing a ketone group; E.G., erythrulose.

ketotic
ketotic (ke′tot-ik)

Pertaining to ketone bodies; presence of acidosis due to excess ketone body production such as occurs in uncontrolled insulin-dependent diabetes.

ketotriose
ketotriose (ke′to-tri′os)

A three-carbon sugar possessing a ketone group; I.E., dihydroxyacetone.

keV
keV

Abbreviation for kiloelectron volts, a unit of energy in diagnostic radiography and nuclear medicine, equivalent to the kinetic energy gained by an electron falling through a potential of 1 volt.

Key
Key

Charles Alston, English physician, 1793–1849.

Key
Key

Ernst A.H., Swedish anatomist and physician, 1832–1901. See foramen of K.-Retzius, sheath of K. and Retzius.

keyway
keyway (ke′wa)

The female portion of a precision attachment.

kg
kg

Abbreviation for kilogram.

khat
khat (kot)

The tender fresh parts of Catha edulis.

khellin
khellin (kel′in)

The active principle in extracts of Ammi visnaga, an umbelliferous plant growing in the Near East; used in angina pectoris and asthma. [Ar. khella]

KHN
KHN

Abbreviation for Knoop hardness number.

kick
kick (kik)

A brisk mechanical stimulus.
atrial k. the priming force contributed by atrial contraction immediately before ventricular systole to increase the efficiency of ventricular ejection due to acutely increased preload.
idioventricular k. the increased contractility of the initially contracting ventricular fibers which, by stretching the later contracting fibers, increases their force of contraction.

Kidd blood group
Kidd blood group

See Blood Groups appendix.

kidney
kidney (kid′ne)

One of the paired organs that excrete urine. The kidneys are bean-shaped organs (about 11 cm long, 5 cm wide, and 3 cm thick) lying on either side of the vertebral column, posterior to the peritoneum, about opposite the twelfth thoracic and first three lumbar vertebrae. SYN: nephros, ren. [A.S. cwith, womb, belly, + neere, k. (L. ren, G. nephros)]
amyloid k. a k. in which amyloidosis has occurred, usually in association with some chronic illness such as multiple myeloma, tuberculosis, osteomyelitis, or other chronic suppurative inflammation; such kidneys are moderately enlarged and grossly manifest a waxy appearance, with amyloid deposited beneath the endothelium in the glomerular loops and in the arterioles, apparently beginning as foci of thickening of the basement membranes. SYN: waxy k..
Armanni-Ebstein k. glycogen vacuolization of the loops of Henle, seen in diabetics before the introduction of insulin. SYN: Armanni-Ebstein change.
arteriolosclerotic k. a k. in which there is sclerosis of the arterioles, i.e., arteriolar nephrosclerosis resulting from long-standing benign hypertension. Such kidneys tend to be pale red-brown or relatively gray, moderately reduced in size, and firmer than normal organs; the capsular surfaces are uniformly finely granular. Most of the arterioles are thickened and hyalinized, thereby resulting in varying degrees of narrowing of the lumens, ischemia, and fibrosis in the interstitial tissue, leading to uniform contraction of the cortex.
arteriosclerotic k. a k. in which there is sclerosis of arterial vessels larger than arterioles. Such kidneys are usually not significantly reduced in size, but are likely to be paler than usual; the capsular surface may be marked by a few, possibly several, conical, relatively deep V-shaped scars that result from fibrosis and ischemic atrophy of the region supplied by the affected vessel.
artificial k. SYN: hemodialyzer.
Ask-Upmark k. true renal hypoplasia with decreased lobules and deep transverse grooving of the cortical surfaces of the k..
atrophic k. a k. that is diminished in size because of inadequate circulation and/or loss of nephrons.
cake k. a solid, irregularly lobed organ of bizarre shape, usually situated in the pelvis toward the midline, produced by fusion of the renal anlagen.
contracted k. a diffusely scarred k. in which the relatively large amount of abnormal fibrous tissue and ischemic atrophy leads to a moderate or great reduction in the size of the organ, as in arteriolar nephrosclerosis and chronic glomerulonephritis.
cow k. a k. containing an abnormally large number of minor calices, resembling normal bovine renal anatomy.
crush k. acute oliguric renal failure following crushing injuries of muscle; kidneys show the changes of hypoxic tubular damage, plus pigment casts in renal tubules that contain myoglobin.
cystic k. a general term used to indicate a k. that contains one or more cysts, including polycystic disease, solitary cyst, multiple simple cysts, and retention cysts (associated with parenchymal scarring).
disk k. SYN: pancake k..
duplex k. a k. in which two pelviocaliceal systems are present.
fatty k. a k. in which there is fatty metamorphosis of the parenchymal cells, especially fatty degeneration.
flea-bitten k. the k. seen at autopsy in some cases of bacterial endocarditis, the appearance being caused by diffuse petechial hemorrhages resulting from focal glomerulonephritis.
floating k. the abnormally mobile k. that frequently descends to the brim of the pelvis when the patient assumes the erect position; nephroptosis. SYN: movable k., wandering k..
Formad k. an enlarged and deformed k. sometimes seen in chronic alcoholism.
fused k. a single, anomalous organ produced by fusion of the renal anlagen.
Goldblatt k. a k. whose arterial blood supply has been compromised, as a consequence of which arterial (renovascular) hypertension develops.
granular k. a k. in which fairly uniform, diffusely and evenly situated foci of scarring of the interstitial tissue of the cortex (and sometimes scarring of glomeruli), and the associated slight degree of bulging of groups of dilated tubules, leads to the development of a minutely bosselated surface; such kidneys are seen in arteriolar nephrosclerosis or chronic glomerulonephritis. SYN: sclerotic k..
head k. SYN: pronephros (1) .
hind k. SYN: metanephros.
horseshoe k. union of the lower or occasionally the upper extremities of the two kidneys by a band of tissue extending across the vertebral column.
medullary sponge k. cystic disease of the renal pyramids associated with calculus formation and hematuria; differs from cystic disease of the renal medulla in that renal failure does not usually develop.
middle k. SYN: mesonephros.
mortar k. SYN: putty k..
movable k. SYN: floating k..
pancake k. a disk-shaped organ produced by fusion of both poles of the contralateral k. anlagen. SYN: disk k..
pelvic k. a congenital abnormality in which the k. is in the pelvis; usually the arterial blood supply comes off the bifurcation of the aorta or the iliac artery.
polycystic k. a progressive disease characterized by formation of multiple cysts of varying size scattered diffusely throughout both kidneys, resulting in compression and destruction of renal parenchyma, usually with hypertension, gross hematuria, and uremia leading to progressive renal failure. There are two major types: 1) with onset in infancy or early childhood, usually of autosomal recessive inheritance [MIM*263200]; 2) with onset in adulthood, of autosomal dominant inheritance with genetic heterogeneity [MIM*173900, 173910, and 600666]; may be caused by mutation in either polycystin-1 gene on chromosome 16p, polycystin-2 gene on 4q, or gene(s) not identified yet. SYN: polycystic disease of kidneys.
primordial k. SYN: pronephros.
putty k. a k. containing caseous material trapped by stricture of the ureter due to tuberculous granulations in renal tuberculosis. SYN: mortar k..
pyelonephritic k. a k. deformed by multiple scars as a result of chronic or recurrent renal infection.
Rose-Bradford k. a form of fibrotic k. of inflammatory origin found in young persons.
sclerotic k. SYN: granular k..
sigmoid k. upper pole of one k. fused with the lower pole of the other.
supernumerary k. a k., in addition to the two usually present, developed from the splitting of the nephrogenic blastema or from a separate metanephric blastema, into which a partial or complete duplication of the ureteral stalk enters to form a separate, capsulated k.; in some cases, the separation of the duplicated organ is incomplete.
thoracic k. ectopic k. that partially lies above the diaphragm in the posterior mediastinum.
wandering k. SYN: floating k..
waxy k. SYN: amyloid k..

Kiel classification
Kiel classification

See under classification.

Kielland Kielland

See Kjelland.

Kien
Kien

Alphonse M.J., 19th century German physician. See Kussmaul-K. respiration.

Kienböck
Kienböck

Robert, Austrian roentgenologist, 1871–1953. See K. disease, K. dislocation, K. unit.

Kiernan
Kiernan

Francis, English physician, 1800–1874. See K. space.

Kiesselbach
Kiesselbach

Wilhelm, German laryngologist, 1839–1902. See K. area.

Kikuchi
Kikuchi

M, 20th century Japanese hematologist. See K. disease.

Kilian
Kilian

Hermann F., German gynecologist, 1800–1863. See K. line.

Kiliani
Kiliani

H., chemist, 1855–1945. See K.-Fischer synthesis, K.-Fischer reaction.

Killian
Killian

Gustav J., German laryngologist, 1860–1921. See K. bundle, K. operation, K. triangle.

kilo- kilo- (k)

Prefix used in the SI and metric system to signify one thousand (10³). [G. chilioi, one thousand]

kilobase
kilobase (kb) (kil′o-bas)

Unit used in designating the length of a nucleic acid sequence; 1 kb equals a sequence of 1000 purine or pyrimidine bases.

kilocalorie
kilocalorie (kcal) (kil′o-kal-o-re)

SYN: large calorie.

kilocycle
kilocycle (kc) (kil′o-si-kl)

One thousand cycles per second.

kilogram
kilogram (kg) (kil′o-gram)

The SI unit of mass, 1000 g; equivalent to 15,432.358 gr, 2.2046226 lb. avoirdupois, or 2.6792289 lb. troy.

kilogram-meter
kilogram-meter

The energy exerted, or work done, when a mass of 1 kg is raised a height of 1 m; equal to 9.80665 J in the SI system.

kilohertz
kilohertz

A unit of frequency equal to 10³ hertz.

kilohm
kilohm

A unit of electrical resistance equal to 10³ ohms. [kilo + ohm]

kilojoule
kilojoule

A unit of energy, work, or quantity of heat equal to 10³ joules. [kilo + joule]

kilovolt
kilovolt (kv) (kil′o-volt)

A unit of electrical potential, potential difference, or electromotive force, equal to 10³ volts. [kilo + volt]

kilovoltmeter
kilovoltmeter (kil′o-volt-me′ter)

An instrument designed to measure electromotive force in kilovolts.

Kimmelstiel
Kimmelstiel

Paul, German pathologist in the U.S., 1900–1970. See K.-Wilson disease, K.-Wilson syndrome.

Kimura
Kimura

T., 20th century Japanese pathologist. See K. disease.

kin- kin-, kine-

Movement, motion. SEE ALSO: cine-. [G. kineo, to move, set in motion]

kinanesthesia
kinanesthesia (kin-an-es-the′ze-a)

A disturbance of deep sensibility in which there is inability to perceive either direction or extent of movement, the result being ataxia. SYN: cinanesthesia. [G. kinesis, motion, + an- priv. + aisthesis, sensation]

kinase
kinase (ki′nas)

1. An enzyme catalyzing the conversion of a proenzyme to an active enzyme; e.g., enteropeptidase (enterokinase). 2. An enzyme catalyzing the transfer of phosphate groups. For individual kinases, see specific name.

kinase II
kinase II

SYN: peptidyl dipeptidase A.

kindling
kindling

Long-lasting epileptogenic changes induced by daily subthreshold electrical brain stimulation without apparent neuronal damage.

kindred
kindred

An aggregate of genetically related persons; distinguished from pedigree, which is a stylized representation of a k.. [O.E. kynrede, fr. cyn, kin, + rede, condition]
degree of k. degree of k. between two members of a pedigree, the minimum number of steps to be traced in going from the one to the other. First degree relatives are sibs, parents, and progeny; second degree are uncles, aunts, nephews, and nieces and so forth. The term is defined for legal purposes e.g., consanguineous marriages, and may be misleading in genetics. The use of groups constituted by lumping together “first degree relatives” regardless of sex or the mode of inheritance in question should be avoided as it fails to distinguish progeny from siblings.

kinematics
kinematics (kin-e-mat′iks)

In physiology, the science concerned with movements of the parts of the body. SYN: cinematics. [G. kinematica, things that move]

kinemometer
kinemometer (kin-e-mom′e-ter)

An electromagnetic device, similar in principle to the velocity ballistocardiograph, used to measure the contraction and relaxation elicited in a tendon reflex. [G. kinesis, movement, + metron, measure]

kinesi- kinesi-, kinesio-, kineso-

Motion. [G. kinesis]

kinesia
kinesia (ki-ne′se-a, -ne′ze-)

SYN: motion sickness. [G. kinesis, movement]

kinesiatrics
kinesiatrics (ki-ne′se-at′riks)

SYN: kinesitherapy. [G. kinesis, movement, + iatrikos, relating to medicine]

kinesics
kinesics (ki-ne′siks)

The study of nonverbal, bodily motion in communication. See body language.

kinesimeter
kinesimeter (kin-e-sim′e-ter)

An instrument for measuring the extent of a movement. SYN: kinesiometer. [G. kinesis, movement, + metron, measure]

kinesin
kinesin (ki-ne′sin)

A motor protein associated with microtubules; participates in the ATP-dependent transport of vesicles and other entities; directs anterograde axonal transport.

kinesio- kinesio-

See kinesi-.

kinesiology
kinesiology (ki-ne-se-ol′o-je)

The science or the study of movement, and the active and passive structures involved. [G. kinesis, movement, + -logos, study]

kinesiometer
kinesiometer (ki-ne-se-om′e-ter)

SYN: kinesimeter.

kinesipathist
kinesipathist (kin-e-sip′a-thist)

A nonmedical person who treats disease by movements of various kinds.

kinesis
kinesis (ki-ne′sis)

Motion. As a termination, used to denote movement or activation, particularly the kind induced by a stimulus. [G.]

kinesitherapy
kinesitherapy (ki-ne-si-thar′a-pe)

Physical therapy involving motion and range of motion exercises. See movement. SYN: kinesiatrics.

kineso- kineso-

See kinesi-.

kinesophobia
kinesophobia (ki-ne-so-fo′be-a)

Morbid fear of movement. [G. kinesis, movement, + phobos, fear]

kinesthesia
kinesthesia (kin′es-the′ze-a)

1. The sense perception of movement; the muscular sense. 2. An illusion of moving in space. [G. kinesis, motion, + aisthesis, sensation]

kinesthesiometer
kinesthesiometer (kin′es-the′ze-om′e-ter)

An instrument for determining the degree of muscular sensation. [kinesthesia, + G. metron, measure]

kinesthesis
kinesthesis (kin′es-the-sez)

See kinesthesia.

kinesthetic
kinesthetic (kin-es-thet′ik)

1. Relating to kinesthesia. 2. Used to describe a person who preferentially uses mental imagery of that which has been felt. SEE ALSO: internal representation.

kinetic
kinetic (ki-net′ik)

Relating to motion or movement. [G. kinetikos, of motion, fr. kinetos, moving]

kinetics
kinetics (ki-net′iks)

The study of motion, acceleration, or rate of change.
chemical k. the study of the rates of chemical reactions.
enzyme k. the study of the rates, and alterations in those rates, of enzyme-catalyzed reactions; includes the reactions catalyzed by synzymes, abzymes, and ribozymes.

kineto- kineto-

Motion. [G. kinetos, moving, movable]

kinetocardiogram
kinetocardiogram (ki-ne′to-kar′de-o-gram, ki-net′o-)

One type of graphic recording of the vibrations of the chest wall produced by cardiac activity.

kinetocardiograph
kinetocardiograph (ki-ne′to-kar′de-o-graf, ki-net′o-)

A device for recording precordial impulses due to cardiac movement; the absolute displacement of a point on the chest wall is recorded relative to a fixed reference point above the recumbent patient.

kinetochore
kinetochore (ki-ne′to-kor, ki-net′o-)

The structural portion of the chromosome to which microtubules attach. Cf.:centromere. [kineto- + G. chora, space]

kinetochores
kinetochores (ki-ne′to-korz)

The protein-bound region of the centromere.

kinetogenic
kinetogenic (ki-ne-to-jen′ik, ki-net-o-)

Causing or producing motion.

kinetoplasm
kinetoplasm (ki-ne′to-plazm)

1. The most contractile part of a cell. 2. The cytoplasm of the droplet that covers the sperm head during maturation. SYN: cinetoplasm, cinetoplasma, kinoplasm. [kineto- + G. plasma, a thing formed]

kinetoplast
kinetoplast (ki-ne′to-plast, ki-net′o-)

An intensely staining rod-, disc-, or spherical-shaped extranuclear DNA structure found in parasitic flagellates (family Trypanosomatidae) near the base of the flagellum, posterior to the blepharoplast, and often at right angles to the nucleus. Electron micrographs show it to be part of a single giant mitochondrion filling most of the cytoplasm of amastigote flagellates, the k. portion being visible by light microscopy. DNA of the k. is termed kDNA to distinguish it from nuclear DNA, or nDNA. The k. divides independently, along with the basal body, prior to nuclear division. The term k. formerly included parabasal body and blepharoplast in a locomotory apparatus, but is now recognized as a distinct organelle of most trypanosomatids. SEE ALSO: parabasal body. [kineto- + G. plastos, formed]

kinetoscope
kinetoscope (ki-ne′to-skop)

An apparatus for taking serial photographs to record movement. [kineto- + G. skopeo, to examine]

kinetosome
kinetosome (ki-ne′to-som, ki-net′o-)

SYN: basal body. [kineto- + G. soma, body]

King
King

Earl J., Canadian biochemist, 1901–1962. See K. unit, K.-Armstrong unit.

kingdom
kingdom (king′dum)

One of the four categories into which natural objects are usually classified: the animal k., including all animals; the plant k., including all plants; the mineral k., including all objects and substances without life; and the protista, including all single-cell organisms. [A.S. cyningdom, fr. cyning, king, + -dom, state, condition]

Kingella
Kingella (kin-jel′ah)

Genus in the family Neisseriaceae; members are medium-size, Gram-negative, aerobic and facultatively anaerobic, nonmotile cocci and coccobacilli in pairs or short chains, which may decolorize poorly with acetone-alcohol; they are oxidase positive, and ferment glucose with acid but not gas. The type species is K. kingae.
K. indologenes former name for Suttonella indologenes, a bacterial species that is the causitive agent of eye infections and endocarditis on damaged (especially prosthetic) heart valves.
K. kingae a β-hemolytic bacterial species that causes endocarditis, osteomyelitis, and septic arthritis in humans; formerly Moraxella kingae. See HACEK group. SYN: Moraxella kingae.

king's evil
king's evil

historic term for cervical tuberculous lymphadenitis (scrofula) which was formerly thought to be curable by the touch of a king.

Kingsley
Kingsley

Norman W., U.S. dentist, 1829–1913. See K. splint.

kinic acid
kinic acid (kin′ik)

SYN: quinic acid.

kinin
kinin (ki′nin)

One of a number of widely differing substances having pronounced and dramatic physiologic effects. Some ( e.g., kallidin and bradykinin) are polypeptides, formed in blood by proteolysis secondary to some pathological process, that stimulate visceral smooth muscle but relax vascular smooth muscle, thus producing vasodilation; others ( e.g., kinetin) are plant growth regulators. [G. kineo, to move, + -in]
k. 9 SYN: bradykinin.

kininogen
kininogen (ki-nin′o-jen)

The globulin precursor of a (plasma) kinin.
high molecular weight k. a plasma protein of 110,000 molecular weight that normally exists in plasma in a 1:1 complex with prekallikrein. The complex is a cofactor in the activation of coagulation factor XII. The product of this reaction, XIIa, in turn activates prekallikrein to kallikrein. SYN: Fitzgerald factor, Flaujeac factor, Williams factor.
low molecular weight k. a protein of 50,000 molecular weight that occurs in various normal tissues and which, upon cleavage by kallikrein or other kininogens, forms kallidin. Kallidin, in turn, is converted into bradykinin.

kininogenase
kininogenase (ki-nin′o-je-nas)

SYN: kallikrein.

kininogenin
kininogenin (ki-nin′o-jen-in)

SYN: kallikrein.

kink
kink

An angulation, bend, or twist.
Lane k. SYN: Lane band.

kino- kino-

Movement. [G. kineo, to move]

kinocentrum
kinocentrum (kin-o-sen′trum)

SYN: cytocentrum. [kino- + G. kentron, center]

kinocilium
kinocilium (ki-no-sil′e-um)

A cilium, usually motile, having nine peripheral double microtubules and two single central ones. [kino- + cilium]

kinomometer
kinomometer (kin-o-mom′e-ter)

An instrument for measuring degree of motion. [kino- + G. metron, measure]

kinoplasm
kinoplasm (kin′o-plazm, ki′no)

SYN: kinetoplasm.

kinoplasmic
kinoplasmic (kin-o-plas′mik, ki-no-)

Relating to kinoplasm (kinetoplasm).

kinship
kinship

The state of being genetically related.

Kinyoun
Kinyoun

Joseph J., U.S. physician, 1860–1919. See K. stain.

kion
kion (ki′on)

Obsolete term for uvula. See entries under cion- as a combining form of uvula. [G. k., pillar, the uvula]

kion- kion-, kiono-

The uvula. See uvulo-, uvul-. [G. kion, uvula]

Kirk
Kirk

Norman Thomas, U.S. Army surgeon, 1888–1960. See K. amputation.

Kirkland
Kirkland

Olin, U.S. periodontist, 1876–1969. See K. knife.

Kirschner
Kirschner

Martin, German surgeon, 1879–1942. See K. apparatus, K. wire.

Kisch
Kisch

Bruno, German physiologist, 1890–1966. See K. reflex.

Kitasato
Kitasato

Shibasaburo, Baron, Japanese bacteriologist, 1853–1931. See K. bacillus.

Kjeldahl
Kjeldahl

Johan G.C., Danish chemist, 1849–1900. See K. apparatus, K. method, macro-K. method, micro-K. method.

Kjelland
Kjelland, Kielland

Christian, Norwegian obstetrician, 1871–1941. See K. forceps.

Klatskin
Klatskin

Gerald, U.S. internist; (died 1988). See K. tumor.

Klebs
Klebs

Theodor Albrecht Edwin, German physician, 1834–1913. See Klebsiella, K.-Loeffler bacillus.

Klebsiella
Klebsiella (kleb-se-el′a)

A genus of aerobic, facultatively anaerobic, nonmotile, nonsporeforming bacteria (family Enterobacteriaceae) containing Gram-negative, encapsulated rods which occur singly, in pairs, or in short chains. These organisms produce acetylmethylcarbinol and lysine decarboxylase or ornithine decarboxylase. They do not usually liquefy gelatin. Citrate and glucose are ordinarily used as sole carbon sources. These organisms may or may not be pathogenic. They occur in the respiratory, intestinal, and urogenital tracts of humans as well as in soil, water, and grain. The type species is K. pneumoniae. [E. Klebs]
K. mobilis SYN: Enterobacter aerogenes.
K. oxytoca a species characterized by its ability to produce indole. Clinically it resembles K. pneumoniae; however, nosocomial strains tend to exhibit a greater propensity to develop antibiotic resistance.
K. ozaenae a bacterial species that occurs in cases of ozena and other chronic diseases of the respiratory tract. SYN: K. pneumoniae ozaenae.
K. pneumoniae a bacterial species found in soil and water, on grain, and in the intestinal tract of humans and other animals; it also occurs in association with several pathologic conditions, urinary tract infections, sputum, feces, and metritis in mares; capsular types 1, 2, and 3 of this organism may be causative agents in pneumonia; organisms previously identified as nonmotile strains of Aerobacter aerogenes are now placed in this species; it is the type species of K.. SYN: Friedländer bacillus, pneumobacillus.
K. pneumoniae ozaenae SYN: K. ozaenae.
K. rhinoscleromatis a bacterial species found in cases of rhinoscleroma.

kleeblattschädel
kleeblattschädel (kla-blat-she′dl)

See cloverleaf skull syndrome. [Ger. cloverleaf skull]

Kleffner
Kleffner

Frank, 20th century U.S. neurologist. See Landau-K. syndrome.

Kleffner Kleffner

See Landau-K. syndrome.

Kleihauer Kleihauer

See K. stain, Betke-K. test.

Klein
Klein

Edward E., Hungarian histologist, 1844–1925. See K.-Gumprecht shadow nuclei, under nucleus.

Kleine
Kleine

Willi, 20th century German neuropsychiatrist. See K.-Levin syndrome.

kleptomania
kleptomania (klep-to-ma′ne-a)

A disorder of impulse control characterized by a morbid tendency to steal. [G. klepto, to steal, + mania, insanity]

kleptomaniac
kleptomaniac (klep-to-ma′ne-ak)

A person exhibiting kleptomania.

kleptophobia
kleptophobia (klep-to-fo′be-a)

Morbid fear of stealing or of becoming a thief. [G. klepto, to steal, + phobos, fear]

Klinefelter
Klinefelter

Harry F., Jr., U.S. physician, *1912. See K. syndrome.

Klippel
Klippel

Maurice, French neurologist, 1858–1942. See K.-Feil syndrome, K.-Trenaunay-Weber syndrome.

Klumpke
Klumpke

See Dejerine-K..

Klüver
Klüver

Heinrich, German-born U.S. neurologist, 1897–1975. See K.-Barrera Luxol fast blue stain, K.-Bucy syndrome.

Kluyvera
Kluyvera (klooy-ver′ah)

Genus in family Enterobacteriaceae; organisms are motile, lactose fermenting, and differentiated from other genera by specific phenotypic profiles and DNA-DNA hybridization parameters; some species have been associated with human infection; the type species is K. ascorbata.

Knapp
Knapp

Herman J., U.S. ophthalmologist, 1832–1911. See K. streaks, under streak, K. striae, under stria.

knee
knee (ne) [TA]

1. SYN: genu (1) . 2. Any structure of angular shape resembling a flexed k.. [A.S. cneow]
Brodie k. chronic hypertrophic synovitis of the k.. SYN: Brodie disease (1) .
housemaid's k. an adventitious occupational bursitis occurring over the area of contact when kneeling; not to be confused with infrapatellar bursitis. SYN: prepatellar bursitis.
locked k. a condition in which the k. lacks full extension and flexion because of internal derangement, usually the result of a torn meniscus.
runner's k. an overuse syndrome of anterior k. pain associated with excessive lateral motion of the patella during activity. SYN: patellofemoral stress syndrome.
Wilbrand k. bundle of inferior nasal optic nerve fibers subserving the superior temporal visual field and crossing in the anterior optic chiasm, briefly entering the contralateral posterior optic nerve [CN II] before proceeding into the contralateral optic tract. Recent research indicates that this may be an artifact of retinal degeneration and not present in the normal anatomy.

kneecap
kneecap (ne′kap)

SYN: patella.

Knemidokoptes
Knemidokoptes (ne′mi-do-kop′tez)

A genus of microscopic burrowing sarcoptid mites that infect fowl and caged birds; species include K. laevis var. gallinae, the depluming mite, and K. mutans, the scaly leg mite. [G. kneme, leg, + kopto, to cut]

KNF model
KNF model

Abbreviation for Koshland-Némethy-Filmer model.

Kniest
Kniest

Wilhelm, 20th century German pediatrician. See K. syndrome.

knife
knife, pl .knives (nif, nivz)

A cutting instrument used in surgery and dissection. [M.E. knif, fr. A.S. cnif, fr. O. Norse knifr]
amputation k. a broad-bladed k. used primarily for transecting large muscles during major amputations.
Beer k. a triangular k. with a sharp point and one sharp edge, formerly used for incision for cataract.
cartilage k. SYN: chondrotome.
cautery k. a k. that sears while cutting, to diminish bleeding.
chemical k. term sometimes used for restriction endonuclease.
electrode k. a blade-shaped electrical instrument used to cut tissues by means of a high-frequency electrical current.
fistula k. SYN: fistulatome.
free-hand k. a manually operated k. or blade usually used to take split-thickness skin grafts; e.g., Blair-Brown k., Humby k. .
gamma k. a minimally invasive radiosurgical system used in the treatment of benign and malignant intracranial neoplasms and arteriovenous malformations. SEE ALSO: radiosurgery.As a preliminary to use of the gamma k., the lesion to be ablated is precisely located by imaging techniques such as MRI, CT, PET, and angiography. Beams of gamma rays from 200 cobalt-60 sources are then directed by a computer so that they converge on the lesion. A series of exposures are made during a period of about 1 hour. Lesions larger than about 3 cm cannot be treated. The mechanism is bulky and costly, but the procedure has shown a success rate of about 85% in the treatment of arteriovenous malformations and 50–95% for neoplasms. Besides avoiding the risks and complications of open surgery, the gamma k. permits treatment of lesions whose location prohibits any attempt at surgical removal. In addition, patient discomfort is minimal and most patients remain in the hospital for only 1 night; many return home, or even to work, on the day of treatment. The gamma k. is expected to prove useful in the treatment of other disorders, such as tumors of the eye and the pituitary gland, trigeminal neuralgia, epilepsy, parkinsonism, and other movement disorders.
Goldman-Fox knives a set of knives used in periodontal surgery.
Graefe k. a narrow-bladed k. used in making a section of the cornea.
hernia k. a slender bladed k., with short cutting edge, for dividing the constricting tissues at the mouth of the hernial sac. SYN: herniotome.
Kirkland k. a heart-shaped k. used in gingival surgery.
lenticular k. a scraper resembling a sharp spoon.
Liston knives long-bladed knives of various sizes used in amputations.
Merrifield k. a long, narrow, triangularly shaped k. used in gingival surgery.
valvotomy k. a k. used in mitral or venous valvular surgery; also called valvulotome.

knismogenic
knismogenic (nis′mo-jen′ik)

Causing a tickling sensation. [G. knismos, tickling, + -gen, production]

knitting
knitting (nit′ing)

Nonmedical term denoting the process of union of the fragments of a broken bone or of the edges of a wound. [M.E., knitten, to knot, fr. A.S. cnyttan]

knob
knob (nob)

A protuberance; a mass; a nodule.
aortic k. the prominent shadow of the aortic arch on a frontal chest radiograph.
Engelmann basal knobs obsolete eponym for blepharoplast.
malarial knobs rounded protrusions of a red blood cell infected with Plasmodium falciparum, responsible for the adhesion of infected red cells to one another and to the endothelium of the blood vessels containing these infected cells; results in capillary blockage responsible for much of the pathology of malignant tertian malaria.

knock
knock (nok)

1. Colloquialism for a blow, especially a blow to the head. 2. A sound simulating that of a blow or rap.
pericardial k. an early diastolic sound that is a variant of the third heart sound, but occurring distinctly earlier, due to rapid ventricular filling being abruptly halted by the restricting pericardium; a truly “knocking” quality is uncommon.

knock-knee
knock-knee (nok′ne)

SYN: genu valgum.

knock-out
knock-out (nok′out)

A genetically engineered organism in which the genome has been altered by site-directed recombination so that a gene is deleted.

Knoll
Knoll

Philipp, Bohemian physiologist, 1841–1900. See K. glands, under gland.

Knoop
Knoop

Hedwig, German physician, *1908. See K. theory.

Knoop hardness number
Knoop hardness number (KHN)

See under number.

knot
knot (not)

1. An intertwining of the ends of two cords, tapes, or sutures, in such a way that they cannot easily become separated; or a similar twining or infolding of a cord in its continuity. 2. In anatomy or pathology, a node, ganglion, or circumscribed swelling suggestive of a k.. [A.S. cnotta]
false knots, false knots of umbilical cord local increases in length or varicosity of the umbilical vein, causing markedly apparent twisting of the cord.
granny k. a double k. in which the free ends of the second loop are asymmetric and not in the same plane as the free ends of the first loop.
Hensen k. SYN: primitive node.
Hubrecht protochordal k. SYN: primitive node.
laparoscopic k. a k. placed intracorporally through a laparoscopic instrument. The k. itself may be tied extracorporally and passed into the body through a cannula or the k. may be both placed and tied intracorporally.
net k. SYN: karyosome.
primitive k. SYN: primitive node.
protochordal k. SYN: primitive node.
square k. a double k. in which the free ends of the second loop are symmetric and in the same plane as the free ends of the first loop.
surgeon's k. the first loop of the k. has two throws rather than a single throw. The second loop has only one throw and that is placed in a square k. fashion leaving the free ends in the same plane as the first loop.
syncytial k. a localized aggregation of syncytiotrophoblastic nuclei in the villi of the placenta during early pregnancy. SYN: syncytial bud, syncytial sprout.
true k., true k. of umbilical cord actual intertwining of a segment of umbilical cord; circulation is usually not obstructed.
vital k. SYN: noeud vital.

knuckle
knuckle (nuk′l)

1. A joint of a finger when the fist is closed, especially a metacarpophalangeal joint. 2. A kink or loop of intestine, as in a hernia. [M.E. knokel]
aortic k. the contour of the aortic arch protruding from the mediastinal silhouette in an anteroposterior (AP) radiograph of the chest.
cervical aortic k. an anomalous aortic arch in which the aorta extends into the neck and forms an anteroposterior arch, which may be as high as the hyoid bone; the common carotid artery of one side is given off from the summit of the arch, and the common carotid of the other side arises from the more proximal part of the aorta; the pulsating arch may be mistaken for an aneurysm, but the radial pulses are equal.

Kobelt
Kobelt

Georg L., German physician, 1804–1857. See K. tubules, under tubule.

Kober
Kober

Philip A., U.S. chemist, *1884. See K. test.

Köbner
Köbner

Heinrich, German dermatologist, 1838–1904. See K. phenomenon.

Koch
Koch

Robert, German bacteriologist and Nobel laureate, 1843–1910. See K. bacillus, K. law, K. old tuberculin, K. phenomenon, K. postulates, under postulate, K.-Weeks bacillus.

Koch
Koch

Walter, German surgeon, *1880. See K. node, K. triangle.

Kocher
Kocher

Emil Theodor, Swiss surgeon and Nobel laureate, 1841–1917. See K. clamp, K. incision, K. sign, K.-Debré-Sémélaigne syndrome.

Kock
Kock

Nils G., 20th century Swedish surgeon. See K. pouch.

Koenig
Koenig

Franz, German surgeon, 1832–1910. See K. syndrome.

Koerber
Koerber

H., 20th century German ophthalmologist. See K.-Salus-Elschnig syndrome.

Koerte
Koerte

Werner, German surgeon, 1853–1937. See K.-Ballance operation.

Koettstorfer
Koettstorfer

J., 19th century German chemist. See K. number.

Kogoj
Kogoj

Franjo, Yugoslavian physician, 1894–1983. See spongiform pustule of K..

Köhler
Köhler

Alban, German roentgenologist, 1874–1947. See K. disease.

Köhler
Köhler

August, German microscopist, 1866–1948. See K. illumination.

Kohlrausch
Kohlrausch

Otto L.B., German physician, 1811–1854. See K. muscle, K. folds, under fold.

Kohn
Kohn

Hans N., German pathologist, *1866. See K. pores, under pore.

Kohnstamm
Kohnstamm

Oskar, German physician, 1871–1917. See K. phenomenon.

koilocyte
koilocyte (koy′lo-sit)

A squamous cell, often binucleated, showing a perinuclear halo; characteristic of human papillomavirus infection. [G. koilos, hollow, + kytos, cell]

koilocytosis
koilocytosis (koy′lo-si-to′sis)

Perinuclear vacuolation. SEE ALSO: koilocyte. [G. koilos, hollow, + kytos, cell, + -osis, condition]

koilonychia
koilonychia (koy-lo-nik′e-a)

A malformation of the nails in which the outer surface is concave; often associated with iron deficiency or softening by occupational contact with oils. SYN: spoon nail. [G. koilos, hollow, + onyx (onych-), nail]

koilosternia
koilosternia (koy-lo-ster′ne-a)

SYN: pectus excavatum. [G. koilos, hollow, + sternon, chest (sternum)]

Kojewnikoff
Kojewnikoff, Kozhevnikov

Aleksei Y., Russian neurologist, 1836–1902. See K. epilepsy.

kojic acid
kojic acid (ko′jik)

An antibiotic product of d-glucose catabolism in some molds; can be converted into flavor enhancers.

Kokoskin
Kokoskin

Evelyn, 20th century Canadian pathologist. See K. stain.

kola
kola (ko′la)

The dried cotyledons of Cola nitida or other species of Cola (family Sterculiaceae) which contains caffeine, theobromine, and a soluble principle, colatin; used as a cardiac and central nervous system stimulant. SYN: cola (1) .

Kölliker
Kölliker

Rudolph A. von, Swiss histologist, 1817–1905. See K. layer, K. reticulum.

Kollmann
Kollmann

Arthur, 19th century German urologist. See K. dilator.

Kolmer
Kolmer

John A., U.S. pathologist, 1886–1962. See K. test.

Kolopp
Kolopp

P., 20th century French dermatologist. See Woringer-K. disease.

kolp- kolp-

See colpo-.

kolytic
kolytic (ko-lit′ik)

Denoting an inhibitory action. [G. kolyo, to hinder]

Kondoleon
Kondoleon

Emmanuel, Greek surgeon, 1879–1939. See K. operation.

koniocortex
koniocortex (ko′ne-o-kor′teks)

Regions of the cerebal cortex characterized by a particularly well developed inner granular layer (layer 4); this type of cerebral cortex is represented by the primary sensory area 17 of the visual cortex, areas 1 to 3 of the somatic sensory cortex, and area 41 of the auditory cortex. SEE ALSO: cerebral cortex. [G. konis, dust, + L. cortex, bark]

konzo
konzo (kon′zo)

A cyanide-caused upper motor neuron disease manifested principally as spastic paraplegia, seen in Africa, and resulting from the consumption of improperly prepared cassava roots, which contain high concentrations of cyanogenetic glucosides. [Yaka, tired legs]

Koplik
Koplik

Henry, U.S. physician, 1858–1927. See K. spots, under spot.

kopophobia
kopophobia (kop-o-fo′be-a)

Morbid fear of fatigue. [G. kopos, fatigue, + phobos, fear]

kopro- kopro-

See copro-.

Korff
Korff

Karl von, 20th century German anatomist and histologist. See K. fibers, under fiber.

Kornberg
Kornberg

Arthur, U.S. biochemist and Nobel laureate, *1918. See K. enzyme.

Kornzweig
Kornzweig

Abraham L., U.S. physician, *1900. See Bassen-K. syndrome.

koro
koro (ko′ro)

An acute delusional state occurring in Macassars, natives of the Celebes, and other parts of the East, in which the subject experiences a sensation that his penis is shriveling or is being drawn into his abdomen. SYN: shook jong.

koronion
koronion (ko-ro′ne-on)

SYN: coronion.

Korotkoff
Korotkoff

Nikolai S., Russian physician, 1874–1920. See K. sounds, under sound, K. test.

Korsakoff
Korsakoff

Sergei S., Russian neurologist, 1853–1900. See K. psychosis, K. syndrome, Wernicke-K. encephalopathy, Wernicke-K. syndrome.

Koshland
Koshland

Daniel E., U.S. biochemist, *1920. See Adair-K.-Némethy-Filmer model, K.-Némethy-Filmer model.

Kossa
Kossa

See von K..

Koyanagi
Koyanagi

Yosizo, Japanese ophthalmologist, 1880–1954. See Vogt-K. syndrome.

Koyter Koyter

See Coiter.

Kr
Kr

Symbol for krypton.

Krabbe
Krabbe

Knud H., Danish neurologist, 1885–1961. See K. disease, Christensen-K. disease.

krait
krait (krit)

Elapid snake of the genus Bungarus, found in northern India, whose bite is associated with generalized anesthetic and paralytic effects, as opposed to local pain, discoloration, or edema; neurotoxic symptoms are similar to those induced by cobra venom. [Hindi karait]

Krantz
Krantz

Kermit E., U.S. obstetrician-gynecologist, *1923. See Marshall-Marchetti-K. operation.

Kraske
Kraske

Paul, German surgeon, 1851–1930. See K. operation.

kraurosis vulvae
kraurosis vulvae (kraw-ro′sis vul′ve)

Atrophy and shrinkage of the epithelium of the vagina and vulva, often accompanied by a chronic inflammatory reaction in the deeper tissues; an outmoded term for lichen sclerosus et atrophicus of the vulva. SYN: leukokraurosis. [G. krauros, dry, brittle]

Krause
Krause

Fedor, German surgeon, 1857–1937. See K. graft, Wolfe-K. graft.

Krause
Krause

Karl F.T., German anatomist, 1797–1868. See K. glands, under gland, K. ligament.

Krause
Krause

Wilhelm J.F., German anatomist, 1833–1910. See K. bone, K. end bulbs, under bulb, K. respiratory bundle, K. valve.

krebiozen
krebiozen (kre′be-oz′en)

An extract from peach kernels, the composition of which has not been fully described but which gained notoriety in the 1960's and 1970's as a dubious but exploited remedy for cancer; currently not regarded as effective. [Ger. Krebs, crab, cancer]

Krebs
Krebs

Edwin G., U.S. biochemist, *1918, joint winner of the 1992 Nobel Prize for the discovery of reversible protein phosphorylation as a biological regulatory mechanism.

Krebs
Krebs

Sir Hans Adolph, German biochemist in England and Nobel laureate, 1900–1981. See K. cycle, K.-Henseleit cycle, K.-Ringer solution.

Kretschmann
Kretschmann

Friederich, German otologist, 1858–1934. See K. space.

Kreysig
Kreysig

Friedrich L., German physician, 1770–1839. See K. sign, Heim-K. sign.

kriging
kriging (kri′jing)

A method first used in the earth sciences to smooth data from spatially scattered point measurements, used in geographic epidemiology. [D. G. Krige, South African engineer]

kringle
kringle (krin′gle)

A structural motif or domain seen in certain proteins in which a fold of large loops is stabilized by disulfide bonds; an important structural feature in blood coagulation factors. [Ger. Kringel, curl]

Krogh
Krogh

August, Danish physiologist and Nobel laureate, 1874–1949. See K. spirometer.

Kronecker
Kronecker

Karl H., Swiss physiologist, 1839–1914. See K. stain.

Krönig
Krönig

Georg, German physician, 1856–1911. See K. isthmus, K. steps, under step.

Krönlein
Krönlein

Rudolf U., Swiss surgeon, 1847–1910. See K. operation, K. hernia.

Krueger instrument stop
Krueger instrument stop

See under instrument.

Krukenberg
Krukenberg

Adolph, German anatomist, 1816–1877. See K. veins, under vein.

Krukenberg
Krukenberg

Friedrich, German pathologist, 1871–1946. See K. amputation, K. spindle, K. tumor.

Kruse
Kruse

Walther, German bacteriologist, 1864–1943. See K. brush, Shiga-K. bacillus.

krymo- krymo-, kryo-

See crymo-, cryo-.

krypton
krypton (Kr) (krip′ton)

One of the noble gases, present in small amounts in the atmosphere (1.14 ppm by dry volume); atomic no. 36, atomic wt. 83.80; ⁸⁵Kr (half-life of 10.73 years) has been used in studies of cardiac abnormalities. [G. kryptos, concealed]

17-KS
17-KS

Abbreviation for 17-ketosteroids.

KUB
KUB

Abbreviation for kidneys, ureters, bladder; archaic term for a plain frontal supine radiograph of the abdomen.

kubisagari
kubisagari, kubisagaru (koo-bi-sah-gah′re, koo-bi-sah-gah′roo)

SYN: vestibular neuronitis. [Jap. kubi, head, neck, + sagaru, to hang down]

Kufs
Kufs

Hugo, German psychiatrist, 1871–1955. See K. disease.

Kugel anastomotic artery
Kugel anastomotic artery

See under artery.

Kugelberg
Kugelberg

Eric, Swedish neurologist, 1913–1983. See K.-Welander disease, Wohlfart-K.-Welander disease.

Kühne
Kühne

Wilhelm (Willy) F., German physiologist and histologist, 1837–1900. See K. fiber, K. methylene blue, K. phenomenon, K. plate, K. spindle.

Kuhnt
Kuhnt

Hermann, German ophthalmologist, 1850–1925. See K. spaces, under space.

Kulchitsky
Kulchitsky

Nicholas, Russian histologist, 1856–1925. See K. cells, under cell.

Külz
Külz

Rudolph E., German physician, 1845–1895. See K. cylinder.

Küntscher
Küntscher

Gerhard, German surgeon, 1902–1972. See K. nail.

Kupffer
Kupffer

Karl W. von, German anatomist, 1829–1902. See K. cells, under cell.

kurchi bark
kurchi bark (ker′che)

SYN: conessi.

Kürsteiner
Kürsteiner, Kuersteiner

W., 19th century German anatomist. See K. canals, under canal.

kurtosis
kurtosis (kur-to′sis)

The extent to which a unimodal distribution is peaked. [G., an arching]

kuru
kuru (koo′roo)

A progressive, fatal form of spongiform encephalopathy endemic to Fore people in the highlands of New Guinea, initially attributed to a “slow virus” infection, but now known to be caused by prions. Transmission is believed to be effected by contamination and ingestion during ritual cannabalism. It is characterized by ataxia, tremors, lack of coordination and death; pathological lesions in the brain include neuronal loss, ostrocytosis and status spongiosus. See prion. [native dialect, to shiver from fear or cold]

Kurzrok-Ratner test
Kurzrok-Ratner test

See under test.

Kussmaul
Kussmaul

Adolph, German physician, 1822–1902. See K. respiration, K. coma, K. disease, K. sign, K.-Kien respiration.

Küster
Küster

Herman, early 20th century German gynecologist. See Mayer-Rokitansky-K.-Hauser syndrome, Rokitansky-K.-Hauser syndrome.

Küstner
Küstner

Heinz, German gynecologist, *1897. See Prausnitz-K. antibody, Prausnitz-K. reaction, reversed Prausnitz-K. reaction.

kv
kv

Abbreviation for kilovolt.

Kveim
Kveim

Morton A., Norwegian physician, *1892. See K. antigen, K. test, K.-Siltzbach antigen, K.-Siltzbach test, Nickerson-K. test.

kVp
kVp

Abbreviation for kilovolts peak, the highest instantaneous voltage across an x-ray tube, corresponding to the highest energy x-rays emitted.

kwashiorkor
kwashiorkor (kwah-she-or′kor)

A disease seen originally in Africans, particularly children 1–3 years old, due to dietary deficiency, particularly of protein; characterized by marked hypoalbuminemia, anemia, edema, pot belly, depigmentation of the skin, loss of hair or change in hair color to red, and bulky stools containing undigested food; fatty changes in the cells of the liver, atrophy of the acinar cells of the pancreas, and hyalinization of the renal glomeruli are found postmortem. SYN: infantile pellagra, malignant malnutrition. [Ga, a language of Ghana, red boy or displaced child]
marasmic k. severe protein-calorie malnutrition characterized by extreme weight loss, weakness, and features of k..

ky- ky-

For words beginning thus and not found below, see cy-.

kymogram
kymogram (ki′mo-gram)

The graphic curve made by a kymograph.

kymograph
kymograph (ki′mo-graf)

An obsolete instrument for recording wavelike motions or modulation, especially for recording variations in blood pressure; it consists of a drum usually revolved by clockwork and covered with smoked paper upon which the curve is inscribed by a stylet or other writing point. [G. kyma, wave, + grapho, to record]

kymography
kymography (ki-mog′ra-fe)

Use of the kymograph.

kymoscope
kymoscope (ki′mo-skop)

An apparatus once used for measuring the pulse waves, or the variation in blood pressure. [G. kyma, wave, + skopeo, to regard]

kynurenic acid
kynurenic acid (kin-u-re′nik, -ren′ik)

A product of the metabolism of l-tryptophan; appears in human urine in states of marked pyridoxine deficiency.

kynureninase
kynureninase (ki-noo-ren′i-nas)

A liver enzyme catalyzing the hydrolysis of the l-kynurenine side chain, with the formation of anthranilic acid and l-alanine, in l-tryptophan metabolism.

kynurenine
kynurenine (ki-noo′re-nen, -nin)

A product of the metabolism of l-tryptophan, excreted in the urine in small amounts; elevated in cases of vitamin B₆ deficiency.
k. formamidase SYN: formamidase.
k. 3-hydroxylase SYN: k. 3-monooxygenase.
k. 3-monooxygenase an enzyme catalyzing addition of a hydroxyl group to l-k., with the aid of NADPH and O₂, producing 3-hydroxy-l-k., NADP⁺, and water; a step in the catabolism of l-tryptophan. SYN: k. 3-hydroxylase.

kyphos
kyphos (ki′fos)

A hump, the convex prominence in kyphosis. [G.]

kyphoscoliosis
kyphoscoliosis (ki-fo-sko′le-o-sis)

Lateral and posterior curvature of the spine; severe congestive heart failure can be a late complication. SYN: scoliokyphosis. [G. kyphosis, kyphosis, + scoliosis, curved]

kyphosis
kyphosis (ki-fo′sis)

1. An anteriorly concave curvature of the vertebral column; the normal kyphoses of the thoracic and sacral regions are retained portions of the primary curvature (k.) of the vertebral column. 2. A forward (flexion) curvature of the spine; the thoracic spine normally has a mild k.; excessive forward curvature of the thoracic spine may represent a pathologic condition. [G. k., hump-back, fr. kyphos, bent, hump-backed]
juvenile k. SYN: Scheuermann disease.
sacral k. [TA] the normal, anteriorly concave curvature of the sacrum (sacral segment of the vertebral column), in which the primary curvature of the fetal embryo is maintained into maturity. SYN: k. sacralis TA] [TA] .
k. sacralis TA] [TA] SYN: sacral k..
thoracic k. [TA] the normal, anteriorly concave curvature of the thoracic segment of the vertebral column, in which the primary curvature of the fetal embryo is maintained into maturity. SYN: k. thoracica [TA] .
k. thoracica [TA] SYN: thoracic k..

kyphotic
kyphotic (ki-fot′ik)

Relating to or suffering from kyphosis.

Kyrle
Kyrle

Josef, German dermatologist, 1880–1926. See K. disease.

kyto- kyto-

See cyto-.