Dictionary of Cancer Terms
View in Spanish: Polvo estéril de talco
Sterile talc powder (STER-il)
A mineral, usually used in a powdered form. In cancer treatment, sterile talc powder is used to prevent pleural effusions (an abnormal collection of fluid in the space between the lungs and the chest wall). Sterile talc powder is inserted into the space, causing it to close up, so fluid cannot collect there. Also called talc.
Source: National Cancer Institute Dictionary of Cancer Terms, available at www.cancer.gov/dictionary.