Dictionary

bronchopulmonary dysplasia A chronic lung disease in infants who received mechanical respiratory support with high oxygenation in the neonatal period.

bronchitis, chronic Inflammation and swelling of the lining of the airways, leading to narrowing and obstruction generally resulting in daily cough. The inflammation stimulates production of mucus, which can cause further blockage of the airways. Obstruction of the airways, especially with mucus, increases the likelihood of bacterial lung infection. Chronic bronchitis is common in persons…

bronchitis, acute An infection of the bronchi of recent origin, typically characterized by cough, chest discomfort, and production of mucus (sputum). Acute bronchitis is treated with antibiotics.

bronchitis Inflammation and swelling of the bronchi. Bronchitis can be acute or chronic.

bronchiolitis Inflammation of the bronchioles, usually due to viral infections.

bronchiole The tiny branch of air tubes within the lungs that is a continuation of the bronchus. The bronchioles connect to the alveoli (air sacs).

bronchiectasis Permanent abnormal widening of the bronchi (air tubes that branch deep into the lungs). Bronchiectasis can cause recurrent lung infections, a disabling cough, shortness of breath, and coughing up blood.

bronchi The plural of bronchus.

Broda test See basal temperature.

Broca area An area of the cerebral motor cortex in the frontal lobe of the brain that is responsible for speech development. Damage to the Broca area can cause speech disorders, including aphasia, apraxia, and dyspraxia. See also aphasia; apraxia of speech; dyspraxia of speech.

BRM See biological response modifier.

brittle bone disease See osteogenesis imperfecta.