A rare metallic element that is present as compounds in some zinc and lead ores. Poisoning over a prolonged period causes loss of hair, disorders of the nerves in the limbs, and disturbance of the stomach and intestines. Thallium201 (an artificial radioactive isotope) is sometimes used in radionuclide scanning of the heart.
An element that is toxic to nerve and liver tissues. A poisoned victim’s hair falls out and does not regrow. Treatment is the administration of CHELATING AGENTS. (See also POISONS.)
The radio-isotope (see ISOTOPE) thallium201 is used as a tracer during special imaging studies of blood ?ow through the heart muscle in the diagnosis of myocardial ischaemia (see HEART, DISEASES OF.)
n. a leadlike element that has several dangerously poisonous compounds. The poison is cumulative and causes liver and nerve damage and bone destruction. The victim’s hair is likely to fall out and does not grow again. Treatment is by administration of *chelating agents. Symbol: Tl.
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