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Formalin (0.25%) as topical anti-microbial agent in burns
R G Nair1, A N Supe, A B Samsi
1Department of Surgery, Seth G.S. Medical College, Parel, Bombay, Maharashtra.
Journal of Postgraduate Medicine
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Formalin spray significantly improved burn eschar healing and reduced infection rates compared to silver sulfadiazine cream. This burn treatment offers easier application and lower costs.
Area of Science:
- Burn Management
- Dermatology
- Infectious Disease Control
Background:
- Local burn treatment is crucial for healing and preventing infection.
- Silver sulfadiazine cream is a common but potentially limited burn dressing.
- Exploring alternative, effective, and cost-efficient burn treatments is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of 0.25% formalin spray versus 2% silver sulfadiazine cream for local burn treatment.
- To evaluate the impact of formalin on eschar formation/separation and infection rates in burn patients.
Main Methods:
- A prospective controlled trial was conducted.
- Patients received either 0.25% formalin spray or 2% silver sulfadiazine cream.
- Outcomes measured included eschar characteristics, infection rates, and mortality.
Main Results:
- Formalin spray showed significantly higher rates of eschar formation and separation (P < 0.001 and P < 0.05, respectively).
- Infection rates and mortality due to infection were reduced in the formalin group.
- Formalin demonstrated ease of application and lower cost.
Conclusions:
- 0.25% formalin spray is a more effective local treatment for burns than silver sulfadiazine cream.
- Formalin promotes better eschar healing and reduces burn-related infections.
- Formalin presents a cost-effective and user-friendly alternative for burn care.