Dictionary

bicuspid valve See mitral valve.

bicuspid aortic valve An aortic valve in the heart that has two flaps (cusps) that open and close. A normal aortic valve in the heart has three flaps. There may be no symptoms of bicuspid aortic valve in childhood, but in time the valve may become narrowed, making it harder for blood to pass through…

bicuspid Having two flaps or cusps.

bicornuate Having two horns or horn-shaped branches. The uterus is normally unicornuate, but it can sometimes be bicornuate.

biceps A muscle that has two heads, or origins. There is more than one biceps muscle. The biceps brachii is the well-known flexor muscle in the upper arm; it bulges when the arm is bent in a C-shape with the fist toward the forehead. The biceps femoris is in the back of the thigh.

bicarbonate In medicine, bicarbonate usually refers to bicarbonate of soda (sodium bicarbonate, baking soda), a white powder that is a common ingredient in antacids. Also, the bicarbonate level is an indirect measure of the acidity of the blood that is determined when electrolytes are tested. The normal serum range for bicarbonate is 22–30 mmol/liter.

bias In a clinical research trial, the effects that may cause an incorrect conclusion. Common examples of bias include advanced knowledge of the treatment being given, strong desire of the researcher for a specific outcome, or improper study design. To avoid bias, a blinded study may be done. See also blinded study; double-blinded study.

bi- Prefix indicating two, as in biceps (a muscle with two heads) or bicuspid (having two flaps or cusps).

BF Physician’s shorthand for black female.

bezoar A clump or wad of swallowed food or hair. Bezoars can block the digestive system, especially the exit of the stomach. A bezoar composed of hair is called a trichobezoar. A bezoar composed of vegetable materials is called a phytobezoar. A bezoar composed of hair and food is called a trichophytobezoar.

beta-adrenergic blocking drug See beta blocker.

beta-2 microglobulin A nonspecific test that measures the amount of cell destruction present. It is considered to be one of the best ways to measure the progression of HIV-related disease, although it may also indicate cell destruction due to cytomegalovirus or other causes.