Letter B
BONE MARROW
Substance that makes up the inner portion of the bone.
BONE SCAN
Nuclear Medicine exam that lights up any active process of the bone such as fracture, bone cancer, infection, etc. Very good (sensitive) at picking up the abnormal bone but cannot tell apart one process from another reliably. Usually need other exams like x-ray or CT to tell what is causing the abnormal finding.
BRAIN STEM
The base of the brain. It is the oldest part of our brain and helps us do things like breathing and blinking. If you think of the brain like a piece of cauliflower, the brain stem is the stalk.
BRANCHIAL CLEFT CYST
A small fluid collection on the side of the neck related to a birth defect. It is usually benign but can become infected. There are multiple varieties but type 2 is the most common.
BRANCHING CALCIFICATIONS
If these calcifications are irregular in shape and are seen only in one part of the breast, there is a chance that these are cancerous. If these are rod-shaped with smooth
outlines and are diffuse (everywhere) in the breast, there is a good chance that these are not cancerous. The radiologist will decide if the patient should have a biopsy for these calcifications.
BRCA1
Human gene that produces a protein (different from BRCA2) that helps to repair damaged DNA (help prevent cancer). When there is a mutation in this gene, it is harder for the body to repair damaged DNA. Because of this, there is increased risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
BRCA2
Human gene that produces a protein (different form BRCA1) that helps to repair damaged DNA (help prevent cancer). When there is a mutation in this gene, it is harder for the body to repair damaged DNA. Because of this, there is increased risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
BROCA’S
Refers to a certain part of the brain located in the frontal lobe usually on the left side if you are right handed. It is important in that it helps you to make words and speak. If you have a stroke in this area you will not be able to speak.
BRONCHI
Plural of “bronchus”. Please see “bronchus”.
BRONCHIECTASIS
Dilated bronchi (air tubes) commonly seen in chronic lung disease or chronic infection.
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