Role of standardized embalming fluid in reducing the toxic effects of formaldehyde

Formaldehyde has been the preferred fixative chemical for the preservation of cadavers since ages. Exposure to formaldehyde fumes gives rise to various toxic effects in anatomists, embalmers and medical students. The acute effects are irritation of upper respiratory tract and eyes, lacrimation, burning of nose and throat, and contact dermatitis while the chronic effects include carcinogenicity and mutagenicity.

This study aims to evaluate the discomfort level produced by formalin vapours on medical students and professionals during the daily dissection schedule. The study was conducted during 2 years using embalming fluids containing different concentrations of formaldehyde. The symptoms caused by toxic effects of when used in higher concentrations (in the conventional embalming fluid) were compared with those caused by lower concentrations (as in the standardized embalming fluid). The gradations of these symptoms were statistically analyzed to show a general acceptability of the standardized embalming fluid with a significant reduction in the toxic effects of formaldehyde.