carotid body

American  

noun

Anatomy.

1. 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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carotid body Scientific  

1. 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.

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Etymology

Origin of carotid body

First recorded in 1935–40

Compare meaning

How does carotid-body compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• carotid body vs. carotid sinus