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.
Also called
carotid gland.
Origin of carotid body
First recorded in 1935–40
Words nearby carotid body
Medical 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
Scientific 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.