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.

Pathology

Talc (magnesium silicate) is used in the preparation of tablets intended for oral use, where it acts as a 'filler' and lubricant. When these tablets are ground down, dissolved and injected for illicit use, the talc accumulates in the pulmonary circulation. These deposits result in small foreign body reaction granulomas, which are birefringent under polarized light. If use is persistent the nodules can coalesce to form larger masses.

Radiographic features

Intrinsically hyperdense micronodules (<1 mm) can be visible on CT.

CT

• ground-glass opacities ⁴
• hyperdense micronodules (<1 mm)
• conglomerate masses, similar to progressive massive fibrosis of silicosis ²
• panlobular emphysema thought to be as a result of methylphenidate (Ritalin) use rather than talc

See also

• small hyperdense pulmonary nodules