Dermatology Glossary B

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Basal cell
A type of skin cell found in the lowest levels of the epidermis. These generate new skin cells (keratinocytes) that grow to the surface of the skin.

Benzoyl peroxide
A topical medication that is commonly used to treat mild acne, or in combination with other medications for the treatment of moderate acne. This popular medication works by opening biackheads and whiteheads and killing the bacteria that cause pimples. Although it can be harsh and drying in some skin types, it can be very effective for getting rid of existing pimples.

Brand names include Clearasil, Proactiv, and Benzac. It is especially effective when used with a topical retinoid (Differin, Retin A Micro, Tazorac) and a topical or an oral antibiotic. Some formulations combine a topical retinoid with benzoyl peroxide (Epiduo).

Biologics
Biologics (also called “disease-modifying therapy” or “immunomodulators”) are a relatively new treatment option for people with moderate to severe psoriasis. They are given this name because they are derived from human or animal proteins instead of chemicals like most other medications. They work by targeting specific parts of the immune system. Biologics must be administered by injection, either into the skin (subcutaneously), into the muscle (intramuscular or IM), or by intravenous infusion (IV). Brand names include Amevive (alefacept), Enbrel (etanercept), Humira (adalimumab), and Remicade (infliximab)

Biopsy (skin)
The removal of skin tissue to diagnose a skin disorder.

Blackhead
(see comedo)

Blepharoplasty
Another name for eyelid lift that rejuvenates the eyes by removing the excess skin and sometimes the fat that causes drooping of the upper lids. It also often entails removing the fat, skin, and muscles that form bags beneath the eyes.

Blister
An enclosed collection of fluid (bubble) within or beneath the epidermis.

Blue nevus
A benign mole with a dark blue color that results from the pigment being in the deep layers of the skin. Seen most often in older children or adolescents.

Blue light therapy
This therapy uses a specific wavelength of light that appears blue to treat inflammatory acne by killing acne-causing bacteria (p. acnes). It is frequently used in conjunction with aminolevulinic acid, a topical light-sensitizing medication.

Blue reticular leg veins
These are flat, painless leg veins that emerge in a netlike pattern, most often in women with fair skin.

Botox
Botox is the brand name for an injectable form of botulinum toxin produced by Allergan. Botox has been FDA approved for the treatment of frown lines. Botox is injected in very small, diluted doses to weaken the tiny facial muscles that are responsible for creases and wrinkles caused by repeated negative facial expressions. Botox is also used for the treatment of excess sweating (hyperhidrosis), and a variety of neurological disorders, such as dystonias and spasticity.

Breast augmentation
This surgical procedure enlarges the size and/or changes the shape of the breasts, usually with implants made of saline, silicone, or, less often, the patient’s own fat. Silicone, which had been taken off the American market until recently is now available again.

Breast reduction
Also known as reduction mammoplasty, this surgery firms, lightens, and reduces the size of very large breasts by removing fat, skin, and sometimes breast tissue.

Brow lift
This surgical procedure helps to rejuvenate the upper face by elevating drooping eyebrows while smoothing the deep lines and furrows in the forehead. (It’s also called a forehead lift.) Some patients opt to have a brow lift performed at the same time a face-lift and/or blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery).

Bulla
A large blister that measures at least 1cm (0.4 inches) at its widest point. Larger than a vesicle.

Bullae
Plural of bulla.

Bunny lines
These are tiny creases that form along the sides of the nose. They are especially obvious when you crinkle your nose and tend to worsen with age.

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Last updated May 3, 2010

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