Category: B

  • Buccal smear

    A sample of cells taken from the mucosa lining the cheek for chromosomal studies.  

  • Bronzed skin

    A condition seen in chronic adrenocortical insufficiency (Addison’s disease) and in hemochromatosis, some cases of diabetes mellitus, and cirrhosis of the liver. Skin discoloration associated with specific adrenal gland disorders.  

  • Binding site

    The particular location on a cell surface or chemical to which other chemicals bind or attach.  

  • Beaten-silver skull sign

    The thinned, irregular appearance of the skull, as seen on x-ray examination of children with obstructive hydrocephalus.  

  • Blind sight

    The ability to see that occurs in persons who are blind because of a brain lesion rather than damage to the eye. It is manifested by their being able to reach for and track an object. These individuals apparently do not know they can see.  

  • Beta sheet

    A protein structure in which parallel layers of linked peptides are folded across each other. This structure is characteristic of amyloid proteins.  

  • Balloon atrial septostomy

    The surgical enlargement of an opening between the cardiac atria for palliative relief of congestive heart failure in newborns with certain heart defects. A deflated balloon is inserted into a vein, passed through the foramen ovale, and then inflated and pulled vigorously through the atrial septum to enlarge the opening and improve oxygenation of the…

  • Bone seeker

    An ion or compound that localizes preferentially in bone (e.g., strontium).  

  • Bathtub seat

    An assistive technology device that helps people with functional limitations to bathe.  

  • Basal seat

    Tissues in the mouth that support a denture.