Diseases That Start With K

Let’s kick off the day with a deep dive into diseases that start with K.

Diseases are a ubiquitous part of life and medical science. They are defined as any condition that impairs the normal functioning of the body or its organs, and can manifest in a variety of ways. From the common cold to cancer, diseases can range from mild to severe, acute to chronic, and infectious to non-infectious. The study of diseases is called pathology, and it involves understanding the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of various ailments affecting humans and animals.

As I started compiling the list of diseases that begins with every alphabet, I realized how vast and complex the world of medical conditions is. It required meticulous research, attention to detail and an extensive database of medical terminologies to come up with a comprehensive list that covered all possible diseases for each alphabet.

So, let’s begin exploring this list of diseases starting with K!

47 Diseases That Start With K

And here’s the list of diseases that begin with K letter.

Kuskokwim disease

Kuskokwim disease is a health condition that affects people living in the Kuskokwim river basin. The disease is caused by a parasitic worm called Dracunculus medinensis, which enters the body through contaminated drinking water. Symptoms of Kuskokwim disease include a burning sensation on the skin, fever, vomiting, and diarrhea. Treatment for Kuskokwim disease involves removing the worm from the body through a small incision.

Kaufman oculocerebrofacial syndrome

Kaufman oculocerebrofacial syndrome is a rare genetic condition that affects many parts of the body, including the eyes, brain, and face. The condition is caused by mutations in the UBE3B gene, which provides instructions for making a protein that helps to break down unwanted proteins in cells. Symptoms of Kaufman oculocerebrofacial syndrome may include developmental delay, intellectual disability, seizures, and facial abnormalities. There is no cure for Kaufman oculocerebrofacial syndrome, but treatment may help manage symptoms.

Kernicterus

Kernicterus is a rare type of brain damage that can occur in newborns with high levels of bilirubin in their blood. Bilirubin is a yellow substance that is produced when red blood cells are broken down. Symptoms of kernicterus may include a yellowish color to the skin and eyes, lethargy, poor feeding, and a high-pitched cry. Treatment for kernicterus may involve phototherapy, blood transfusions, or medication to help lower bilirubin levels.

Kocher

Kocher is a type of surgical instrument that is used to hold and manipulate tissues during surgery. The instrument is named after Swiss surgeon Emil Theodor Kocher, who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 1909 for his work on the thyroid gland. Kocher instruments are characterized by their long, tapered jaws and fine teeth, which allow for precision control during surgery.

Karsch

Karsch is a type of beetle that belongs to the family Chrysomelidae. These beetles are commonly found in North America and Europe and are known for their distinctive black and yellow coloring. Karsch beetles feed on the leaves of plants and can cause significant damage to crops.

King

King is a type of chess piece that represents the most important piece on the board. The king is typically depicted as a small piece with a cross on the top and can move one square in any direction. The object of the game of chess is to trap the opponent’s king in such a way that it cannot escape capture.

Keratolytic winter erythema

Keratolytic winter erythema is a rare skin condition that typically affects the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. The condition is characterized by dry, scaly patches of skin that may be red and itchy. Keratolytic winter erythema is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors and may be treated with topical creams and ointments.

Kearns

Kearns-Sayre syndrome is a rare genetic condition that affects the eyes and muscles. The condition is caused by mutations in the mitochondrial DNA and may cause symptoms such as progressive external ophthalmoplegia, muscle weakness, and heart conduction defects. Treatment for Kearns-Sayre syndrome may involve the use of medications to manage symptoms.

Kaposi sarcoma

Kaposi sarcoma is a type of cancer that causes abnormal growths in the skin, mucous membranes, and various internal organs. The condition is caused by a virus called human herpesvirus 8 and may be more common in people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS. Symptoms of Kaposi sarcoma may include skin lesions, swelling, and fatigue. Treatment for Kaposi sarcoma may involve surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.

Kerion celsi

Kerion celsi is a fungal infection of the scalp that may cause large, pus-filled bumps and hair loss. The condition is caused by a type of fungus called Trichophyton, which can be spread through contact with infected individuals or objects. Treatment for kerion celsi may involve antifungal medications and the use of medicated shampoos to help control symptoms.

Kimura disease

Kimura disease is a rare inflammatory disorder that affects the lymph nodes and salivary glands. The condition is characterized by painless, swollen masses that may be accompanied by itching and skin color changes. The exact cause of Kimura disease is unknown, but the condition is thought to be related to allergic or autoimmune reactions. Treatment for Kimura disease may involve the use of medication to control symptoms.

Kennedy disease

Kennedy disease, also known as spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy, is a genetic disorder that affects the muscles and nerves. The condition is caused by mutations in the androgen receptor gene and primarily affects men. Symptoms of Kennedy disease may include muscle weakness and wasting, difficulty swallowing, and speech impairment. There is no cure for Kennedy disease, but treatment may help manage symptoms.

Kluver

Kluver-Bucy syndrome is a rare neurological disorder that may cause a range of symptoms, including changes in behavior, emotions, and sexual function. The condition may be caused by damage to the temporal lobes of the brain and may be associated with conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and epilepsy. Treatment for Kluver-Bucy syndrome may involve the use of medications to manage symptoms.

Keratoconus posticus circumscriptus

Keratoconus posticus circumscriptus is a rare eye condition that affects the cornea. The condition is characterized by a localized thinning of the cornea and may cause visual abnormalities, such as double vision and distorted images. Treatment for keratoconus posticus circumscriptus may involve the use of corrective lenses or surgical intervention to help correct vision.

Keratoacanthoma familial

Keratoacanthoma familial is a rare form of skin cancer that is characterized by the development of smooth, dome-shaped lesions on the skin. The condition is thought to be caused by a genetic mutation and may be more common in certain ethnic groups. Treatment for keratoacanthoma familial may involve surgical removal of the lesions.

Keloids

Keloids are a type of raised scar tissue that may form after an injury or surgery. The scars are typically larger than the original injury and may be raised, itchy, and tender. Keloids may be more common in people with darker skin and may be treated with topical or injectable medications, as well as surgical excision.

Keratosis follicularis spinulosa decalvans

Keratosis follicularis spinulosa decalvans is a rare genetic condition that affects the hair follicles and skin. The condition is characterized by scaly, red patches of skin, as well as hair loss. Keratosis follicularis spinulosa decalvans is thought to be caused by mutations in the SAT1 gene and may be treated with topical medications and laser therapy.

Keratoconus

Keratoconus is an eye condition in which the cornea becomes thinner and more cone-shaped, resulting in blurred vision and sensitivity to light. The condition is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors and may be more common in individuals with allergies or who rub their eyes frequently. Treatment for keratoconus may involve the use of corrective lenses or surgical intervention.

Keratomalacia

Keratomalacia is a condition in which the cornea becomes dry and elastic, leading to vision loss and possible blindness. The condition is caused by a severe deficiency of vitamin A and may be more common in individuals with malnutrition or alcoholism. Treatment for keratomalacia may involve the use of vitamin A supplements and other supportive therapies.

Kidney stone disease

Kidney stone disease is a common condition in which small, hard deposits of minerals and salt accumulate in the kidneys, causing significant pain and discomfort. Symptoms of kidney stone disease may include severe pain in the back or side, blood in the urine, and nausea or vomiting. Treatment for kidney stone disease may involve pain management, hydration, and surgical removal of the stones.

Kuru

Kuru is a very rare and fatal degenerative neurological disorder that was formerly common among the Fore people of Papua New Guinea.

Kaolin pneumoconiosis

Kaolin pneumoconiosis is the result of long-term exposure to kaolin, a clay mineral used in the production of ceramics, paper, paint, and various other industries, which can lead to lung damage.

Kounis syndrome

Kounis syndrome is a medical condition in which acute coronary events appear due to the activation of mast cells and subsequent release of inflammatory mediators in patients with acute allergy, anaphylaxis, or insect venom allergy.

Kikuchi disease

Kikuchi disease is a rare, benign, usually self-limiting condition characterized by cervical lymphadenopathy and fever, which is sometimes misdiagnosed as lymphoma at the outset.

Kniest dysplasia

Kniest dysplasia is a rare genetic disorder affecting bone growth, which results in a short stature, abnormally shaped bones, and other skeletal abnormalities.

Klumpke paralysis

Klumpke paralysis is a type of brachial plexus injury, which causes weakness or paralysis of the hand and forearm muscles, alongside other symptoms such as Horner’s syndrome.

Kyphosis

Kyphosis is a spinal disorder characterized by an excessive curvature of the thoracic region of the spine, leading to a hunched posture and back pain in severe cases.

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca is a medical condition in which the eyes become painfully dry, irritated, and sensitive as a result of decreased production or accumulation of tears on the surface of the eye.

Keratoacanthoma

Keratoacanthoma is a common, benign skin tumor that resembles squamous cell carcinoma, but usually regresses spontaneously without treatment.

Kyasanur forest disease

Kyasanur forest disease is an infectious disease transmitted by ticks, which causes fever, headache, muscle pain, and in severe cases, hemorrhagic fever and encephalitis.

Kabuki syndrome

Kabuki syndrome is a rare, congenital disorder characterized by distinctive facial features, skeletal abnormalities, developmental delay, and intellectual disability.

Keutel syndrome

Keutel syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by tissue calcification, hearing loss, and short stature.

KID syndrome

KID syndrome is a rare, genetic disorder characterized by skin lesions, renal abnormalities, and hearing loss.

Krabbe leukodystrophy

Krabbe leukodystrophy is a rare, genetic brain disorder that affects the central and peripheral nervous systems, leading to a progressive deterioration of motor skills, hearing, and vision.

Kowarski syndrome

Kowarski syndrome is a rare autoimmune disease that gradually destroys the larynx, leading to hoarseness, vocal cord paralysis, and breathing difficulties.

Kleeblattschaedel syndrome

Kleeblattschaedel syndrome is a congenital malformation affecting the shape of the skull, which results in a cloverleaf-shaped head, and various neurological anomalies.

Kartagener syndrome

Kartagener syndrome is a rare, genetic disorder characterized by chronic sinus and lung infections, defective cilia, and infertility.

Keratosis pilaris

Keratosis pilaris is a common skin condition in which small, raised bumps appear on the skin, usually on the back of the arms, thighs, and buttocks.

Koilonychia

Koilonychia is a condition in which the nails become thin and concave, resembling spoons, and is often associated with iron deficiency anemia.

Kostmann syndrome

Kostmann syndrome, also known as severe congenital neutropenia, is a rare genetic disorder characterized by a severe lack of neutrophils, leading to recurrent infections.

Kwashiorkor

Kwashiorkor is a type of malnutrition caused by a lack of sufficient protein, which results in swelling, skin lesions, hair loss, and other symptoms of edema.

Kohler disease

Kohler disease is a rare bone disorder affecting the navicular bone in the foot, causing pain, tenderness, and difficulty walking, particularly in children.

Kohlschutter-Tonz syndrome

Kohlschutter-Tonz syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterized by epilepsy, intellectual disability, and cerebellar ataxia.

Kawasaki syndrome

Kawasaki syndrome, also known as mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome, is an acute, self-limited vasculitis that usually affects young children, leading to fever, rash, conjunctivitis, and other symptoms.

Kapur

Kapur syndrome is a very rare genetic disorder that affects the fingers and toes, causing a webbed appearance, alongside various skeletal and dental anomalies.

Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma

Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma is a vascular tumor that usually develops in infancy or childhood, presenting as a reddish-purple nodule on the skin or other visceral sites, and can lead to bleeding and thrombocytopenia.

Katz syndrome

Katz syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterized by tall stature, long fin on the index finger, and unique facial features such as small jaw and large nose.

Wrapping Up

And that’s our list of K diseases.

I began my journey of compiling the list of diseases for each alphabet with a clear approach in mind. I knew that it was going to be an extensive task that required time and dedication. And so, I spent hours upon hours researching and cross-referencing to ensure I don’t miss any known condition that starts with each letter.

As we come to the end of our analysis on the topic of diseases, it is evident that they have a far-reaching impact on human health, society, and economies. They erode quality of life and burden healthcare systems, which can lead to long-term suffering and economic losses. Therefore, it’s important for individuals, communities, and governments to work together in addressing this challenge.

Hope this post on diseases beginning with K alphabet has been useful to you!