K
A rare type of cancer characterized by the abnormal growth of cells that line lymph and blood vessels. Kaposi sarcoma (KS) causes red or purple patches of tissue (lesions) to grow under the skin and in the lining of the mouth, nose, and throat. Lesions may also develop in the digestive tract, liver, or lungs. KS generally occurs in people with weakened immune systems. In people with HIV, KS is an AIDS-defining condition.
See Related Term(s): AIDS-Defining Condition, Kaposi Sarcoma Herpesvirus
Kaposi Sarcoma Herpesvirus (KSHV) 
(En español)
Also known as: Human Herpesvirus 8
A type of herpesvirus that causes Kaposi sarcoma. Kaposi sarcoma herpesvirus (KSHV) is primarily transmitted through genital fluids and saliva. Most people infected with KSHV do not develop Kaposi sarcoma. In people with weakened immune systems, including people with HIV, the viral infection is much more likely to advance to Kaposi sarcoma than in people with healthy immune systems.
See Related Term(s): Herpesviruses, Kaposi Sarcoma
Karnofsky Performance Status (En español)
Also known as: Karnofsky Score
A way to rate a person's ability to perform activities of daily living. The Karnofsky performance status is used to evaluate whether a person should receive a therapy, whether a therapy should be adjusted or discontinued, and whether a person may participate in a clinical trial. The scores range from 0 to 100, with a higher score indicating that a person is better able to perform daily activities.
Also known as: Excipient Hyperbilirubinemia
A rare type of brain damage associated with high levels of bilirubin. Kernicterus is usually seen only in infants with untreated jaundice, and it very rarely occurs in adults. Symptoms include uncontrollable movement in the face, body, arms, and legs (called athetoid cerebral palsy) and hearing loss. Kernicterus may also cause problems with vision and teeth and may lead to mental retardation.
See Related Term(s): Bilirubin, Jaundice
A pair of bean-shaped organs located in the abdomen, near the middle of the back. The kidneys filter the blood to remove waste products and extra water. The wastes and water become urine, which is eliminated from the body. The kidneys also release hormones, which help with regulating blood pressure, stimulating the body to produce red blood cells, and maintaining a normal chemical balance in the body.