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International Journal of Recent Trends in Science and Technology, ISSN 2277-2812 E-ISSN: 2249-8109
Volume 16, Issue 2, Sept 2015 pp 236-239
Research Article
Acute effect of formalin inhalation on peak expiratory flow rate in the first year medical students
Vivek Verma1, Aniruddha Jibhkate2, Ravi Saxena3, Sushila Gaur4, Richa Lath5
{1,3Professor, 2Assistant Professor, 4Professor and HOD, Department of Physiology} {5Assistant Professor Department of Biochemistry}
Chirayu Medical College and Hospital Bhainsakhedi, Near Bairagarh (Bhopal-Indore Highway), Bhopal– 462030, Madhya Pradesh, INDIA.
Abstract
Introduction: Formaldehyde has potent irritant effect on upper respiratory tract. Both pneumonitis and asthma have been reported after long term exposure to formalin. The aim of this study thus, was to assess the acute effect of formalin inhalation on Peak expiratory flow rate which should be reduced if there is bronchospasm. Methods: 60 first year medical students (both male and female) were tested before and after exposure to formalin while working in the anatomy dissection. PEFR was measured by Wight’s mini peak flowmeter first before entering the dissection hall and, second just after coming out of dissection hall. The largest value from at least three acceptable blows is recorded. Results: The PEFR was significantly reduced after exposure to formalin in the dissection hallin all subjects as well as in the two gender groups (p<.001). Conclusion: There is significant acute bronchospasm due to exposure to formalin though long term effects of exposure to formalin are yet to be determined.
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