Glossary B

Basal ganglia

A structure at the base of the brain composed of four groups of nerve cells, responsible for body movements and coordination.

Basophil

A type of Leukocyte that contains and can release histamine and serotonin. Also called a basophilic leukocyte.

Bilateral

Having two sides, or relating to both sides.

Biopsy

The removal and examination, usually microscopic, of tissue from the living body, performed to establish precise diagnosis.

Blind

Not having the sense of sight. Relating to a clinical trial or other experiment in which one or more of the groups receiving, administering, and evaluating the treatment are unaware of which treatment any particular subject is receiving.