Glossary

Barium Enema: See Water Soluble contrast Enema (Contrast Enema)
Barium Swallow: (see also Upper GI X-Ray) A test in which X-rays are taken after one has swallowed a liquid radiocontrast material called barium. The test is used to diagnose and determine the extent of swallowing problems.
Barrett's Esophagus: A condition in which the inner lining of the esophagus becomes damaged due to stomach acid refluxing into the lower part of the esophagus. The condition can increase the chances of getting esophageal cancer.
Basophil: A circulating white blood cell that bears IgE receptors, releases histamine and is involved in allergic reactions.
Benralizumab: A monoclonal antibody medication that works by reducing a certain type of white blood cell to help decrease swelling and irritation of the airways to allow for easier breathing.
Bile: A digestive fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. It is needed for proper digestion of fats. Bile is re-absorbed in the small intestine and recycled back to the liver.
Bile Duct: A tube that connects the liver and gallbladder to the small intestine. Its function is to allow bile to flow into the small intestine.
Biliary: Referring to any duct or organ in the biliary system; the bile ducts, liver and/or gallbladder.
Biopsy: A tissue sample. In the case of digestive diseases, the biopsy is usually painless and is taken from the inner layers of the esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines during endoscopy and colonoscopy procedures.
Bloating: A puffing up of the abdomen, usually caused by excess gas that has accumulated in the small and/or large intestines. Lactose intolerance, irritable bowel syndrome, and other intestinal disorders may increase one's likelihood of experiencing bloating. Gassy foods such as beans, peanuts, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, kale and related foods may lead to bloating from fermentation certain carbohydrates that are high in these foods. Also, improper digestion of other nutrients (fats, carbohydrates, proteins) may cause bloating.
Bone Density Test: See DEXA Scan.