definitions

carotid body

noun Anatomy.

a small mass of cells and nerve endings adjacent to the carotid sinus that, in response to chemical changes in the blood, adjusts the respiratory rate.

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Nearby words

carothers, caroticotympanic, caroticotympanic nerve, carotid, carotid artery, carotid body, carotid bruit, carotid canal, carotid ganglion, carotid sheath, carotid sinus

Origin of carotid body

First recorded in 1935–40
Also called carotid gland.
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Medicine definitions for carotid body

carotid body

n.

A small epithelioid structure, located just above the bifurcation of the common carotid artery on each side that serves as a chemoreceptor organ responsive to lack of oxygen, excess of carbon dioxide, and increased concentration of hydrogen ions.intercarotid body
The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company.

Science definitions for carotid body

carotid body

A mass of tissue near the carotid sinus that contains chemical receptors sensitive to oxygen and pH levels in the blood and that is involved in the regulation of respiratory activity.
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary Copyright © 2011. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.