What is Talcosis?

Talcosis is a type of pneumoconiosis and can be prevalent in intravenous drug users. It is one of the four recognized types of talc-induced lung disease.

How is Talcosis treated?

Acute talcosis is generally treated with supportive measures, though use of steroids has been reported. Chronic talcosis can cause severe emphysema, and has been treated with lung transplant. Pulmonary hypertension from talcosis has been treated with vasodilator agents, with some success.

What is talc lung?

Talc is sprayed through a tube into the chest area around the lungs. It is given to people who have breathing problems caused by a buildup of fluid or air in this area. Talc is used after the fluid has been drained out, to prevent the problem from returning.

Why is baby powder not safe?

The American Academy of Pediatrics has been warning parents about the potential dangers of using talcum powder on infants since 1969. Baby powder has been found to dry out mucous membranes, potentially leading to respiratory diseases such as pneumonia, asthma, pulmonary talcosis, lung fibrosis, and respiratory failure.

What baby powder is safe?

So, there isn’t clear evidence that baby powder will cause cancer, but if you prefer to play it safe, opt for a talc-free baby powder alternative like cornstarch or arrowroot powder.

How is pneumoconiosis talc related to silicosis?

Pneumoconiosis Talc Talcosis is a rare pulmonary disease caused by intake of high levels of talcum powder. It is closely related to other silicosis variants and can lead to pulmonary hypertension with cor pulmonale in fatal manifestations. It develops as a consequence of talcum inhalation or because of drug use.

How is pulmonary talcosis related to heroin use?

Pulmonary talcosis, less specifically referred to as talcosis, is a pulmonary disorder caused by talc. It has been related to silicosis resulting from inhalation of talc and silicates. It is also tied to heroin use where talc might be used as an adulterant to increase weight and street value.

What kind of disease is caused by talcum powder?

Talcosis is a rare pulmonary ailment caused by the inhalation or the intravenous administration of talcum. Inhalation accumulates talcum powder in the lungs leading to either acute or chronic disease. It was first described in the late 19th century [1] as an occupational disease in miners and millers.