Talc-induced lung disease

Last revised by Joshua Yap on 30 Apr 2023

Talc-induced lung disease comprises of a group of pathologies that can occur due to exposure to the mineral talc (hydrated magnesium silicate).

Four types of pulmonary disease secondary to talc exposure have been defined. These are:

  • talcosilicosis: associated with occupational exposure

  • talcoasbestosis: associated with occupational exposure

  • talcosis: associated with inhalation of pure talc

  • pulmonary talc granulomatosis: occurs in the setting of people with substance use disorder who inject tablets intended for oral use (related to talc pulmonary embolism)

See also 

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