The Adverse Effect Of Formalin: A Warning Against Mishandling

Abstract

Formalin is a clear solution of 37% formaldehyde in water. It is used in dentistry as a disinfectant, antiseptic and mainly as tissue fixative for preserving biologic specimens for histopathologic examination. The human knowledge on systemic formaldehyde intoxication is inadequate as only few cases of formalin ingestion have been reported. This paper presents a brief communication of the adverse effect of formalin to the human tissue.