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Talc
Pronunciation
Definition 1
A mineral, usually used in a powdered form. In cancer treatment, sterile talc is used to prevent pleural effusions (an abnormal collection of fluid in the space between the lungs and the chest wall). Talc is inserted into the space, causing it to close up, so fluid cannot collect there. Also called sterile talc powder. (NCI Dictionary)
Definition 2
Finely-powdered native hydrous magnesium silicate. When administered into the pleural space, talc initiates an inflammatory reaction, resulting in adhesion of the visceral pleura to the parietal pleura and fibrosis, thereby effectively closing the pleural space and preventing further accumulation of fluid. This agent exhibits no intrinsic antineoplastic activity. (NCI Thesaurus)
Definition 3
Finely powdered native hydrous magnesium silicate. It is used as a dusting powder, either alone or with starch or boric acid, for medicinal and toilet preparations. It is also an excipient and filler for pills, tablets, and for dusting tablet molds. (From Merck Index, 11th ed) (NLM, Medical Subject Headings)
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