(dī-ok'sĭn )

Any of a family of toxic chlorinated hydrocarbons, esp. TCDD. Dioxins are unwanted pollutant by-products in the manufacture of paper and pesticides and in the incineration of waste and garbage. Dioxin-like compounds are also released by the degradation of some other organic molecules. Initial exposure to dioxins can produce chloracne, liver injury, and peripheral neuropathy.

SEE: Agent Orange; pentachlorophenol; polychlorinated biphenyls; TCDD; 2,4,5-trichlorophenoxyacetic acid.