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Critical airway induced by formalin injection: case report
The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|December 17, 2013
Summary
Formalin injection into the neck can cause severe airway obstruction. Prompt medical intervention, including securing the airway and infection control, is critical for patient survival.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Emergency Medicine
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Formalin, a formaldehyde solution, is commonly used for tissue preservation in histopathology.
- Ingestion or injection of formalin can lead to severe, immediate tissue damage in humans.
Observation:
- A case report details a 36-year-old male who self-injected formalin into his neck, causing critical airway compromise.
- Medical management involved endotracheal intubation, tracheostomy, antibiotics, and N-acetyl cysteine.
Findings:
- The patient's airway status improved following medical intervention.
- Deep neck inflammation and airway compromise are potential risks following substance injection in the neck.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider the possibility of deep neck inflammation and airway compromise in patients presenting after neck substance injection.
- Establishing a definitive airway and implementing prophylactic infection control are vital immediate management steps.
