The Effects of Formaldehyde Among Medical Students in Anatomy Dissection Laboratory of Shiraz School of Medicine

Purpose: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of formaldehyde vapor on eyes, nose and skin and pulmonary function of medical students, as well as, indoor concentration of formaldehyde (FA) vapor in dissection laboratory. Materials and Methods: One hundred sixty five (165) medical students were selected randomly. Students were excluded if they had had history of smoking, or any condition likely to have an effect on the results of this study. All students were exposed to formaldehyde at least one hour per week for 10 weeks. To evaluate irritation of eyes, nose and skin, pulmonary function and indoor concentration of FA vapor in anatomy laboratory we used questioner, spirometry and NIOSH 3500 method (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health), respectively. Results: Following exposure to FA, irritation of skin, eyes and specially nose (75.8%) were increased significantly (P£0.05) in the majority of students. No noticeable differences were seen in spirometry parameters before and after exposure to FA. About 20-30 cm of to the cadaver, FA vapor concentration was higher than that of in the corner, as well as standard levels. Conclusions: The results of present study confirm that; a-Formaldehyde can irritate the mucous membrane of eyes and upper respiratory tract b-Pulmonary functions have not been affected following short time exposure to formaldehyde. c-Formaldehyde concentration of breathing zone is greater than the threshold limit value/ceiling.