Category: B

A genus of threadlike parasitic worms. B. malayi infects man throughout southeast Asia, causing filariasis and elephantiasis (especially of the feet and legs). B. pabangi, a parasite of wild cats and domestic animals, produces an allergic condition in man, with coughing, breathing difficulty, and an increase in the umber of eosinophils in the blood. Brugia…

An occupational disease associated with exposure to cotton dust. Those particularly affected by the disorder, which technically is a form of ‘byssinosis, are workers in textile mills who inhale the cotton dust.  

A blue dye used in tests of liver function. A small quantity of the dye is injected into the bloodstream, and its concentration in the blood is measured after 5 and then 45 minutes. The presence of more than 10% of the dose in the circulation after 45 minutes indicates that the liver is not…

An antihistamine that has the same uses and side-effects as bromodiphenhydramine.  

An antihistamine given by mouth to relieve the symptoms of allergic reactions, especially hay fever and rhinitis. It is also used to prevent nation sickness. Common side-effects include drowsiness, dizziness, dryness of the throat, and digestive upsets.  

Bacterial breakdown of sweat, usually in the armpit or on the feet, which causes an unpleasant smell.  

An expectorant that acts by increasing the volume and reducing the viscosity of bronchial secretions. It is used in the treatment of bronchitis and may cause nausea.  

Local health units found in states, counties, cities, and towns through out the U.S. Members of Boards of Health are usually appointed by elected officials, such as governors, county commissioners, or mayors, and membership generally includes at least one physician. The members may have advisory or administrative functions, depending upon local laws. In some instances…

The action of closing and opening the eyelids, which wipes the front of the eyeball and helps to spread the tears. Reflex blinking may be caused by suddenly bringing an object near to the eye: the eyelids close involuntarily in order to protect the eye.  

Narrowing of the aperture between the eyelids. It may be congenital but can be acquired if the skin contracts at the outer corner of the eye as a result of chronic inflammation.