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Definition of Tetrafluoroethylene
Medically reviewed by Dr. Otari Nergadze, Neurosurgeon | Updated: January 2026
Tetrafluoroethylene: A substance that is a possible carcinogen (cancer-causing agent) used in the production of polymers such as polytetrafluoroethylene.
The US government in 2000 classified tetrafluoroethylene as "reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen." In laboratory animal studies of tetrafluoroethylene, cancer was observed in multiple organs of multiple species following long-term inhalation exposures.