Carotid-body


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.

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. Also called intercarotid 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.

Read Also:

  • Carotid bruit

    carotid bruit carotid bruit n. A bruit produced by blood flow in a carotid artery.

  • Carotid canal

    carotid canal carotid canal n. A passage through the petrous part of the temporal bone that transmits the internal carotid artery.

  • Carotid ganglion

    carotid ganglion carotid ganglion n. A small ganglionic swelling on the filaments from the internal carotid plexus, lying on the undersurface of the carotid artery in the cavernous sinus.

  • Carotid sheath

    carotid sheath carotid sheath n. The dense fibrous tissue enveloping the carotid artery, internal jugular vein, and vagus nerve on either side. Historical Examples The knife may even reach the vertebral column without damaging the contents of the carotid sheath. Manual of Surgery Volume Second: Extremities–Head–Neck. Sixth Edition. Alexander Miles

  • Carotid-sinus

    specialized nerve end organs producing a slight dilatation of the carotid artery where it branches into the external and internal carotid arteries, responding to changes in blood pressure by mediating changes in the heartbeat rate. carotid sinus n. A dilation of the common carotid artery at its bifurcation into the internal and external carotids, containing […]


Disclaimer: Carotid-body definition / meaning should not be considered complete, up to date, and is not intended to be used in place of a visit, consultation, or advice of a legal, medical, or any other professional. All content on this website is for informational purposes only.