Evaluation of formaldehyde exposure among gross dissection after modified embalming solution and health assessment

Mainly embalming fixative contains formaldehyde which is classified as a carcinogen. People who work with cadavers have been at higher risk of cancer after formaldehyde exposure. We have formulated a less-formalin fixative (contained 3.6% formaldehyde,23.8% ethanol, 15% glycerin, and 0.2% phenol in the water) for preserving cadavers. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the level of atmospheric formaldehyde indoors and the breathing exposure of medical students during dissection classes. We also analyzed the pulmonary parameters and effects of formaldehyde. The levels of atmospheric formaldehyde indoors and personal breathing exposure were sampled during anatomy dissection classes (musculoskeletal system, respiratory system, and abdominopelvic organ system) using sorbent tubes with air sampling pumps. Samples were then analyzed using Gas Chromatography with Flame Ionization Detector (GC-FID). The mean level of formaldehyde indoor air among the three classes was 0.518 ± 0.156 ppm whereas the formaldehyde level in the personal breathing zone was 0.956±0.408 ppm, which exceeded the recommended exposure standards of international agencies, including NIOSH agency and PEL of Thailand legislation. The laboratory had high humidity, high room temperature, and poor air ventilation. There was a significant difference in FVC, FEV1, and PEF (p < 0.05) between the sexes of students. Comparison pulmonary parameters between students and instructors showed that all parameters of the pulmonary function test had no significant differences. General fatigue and burnings of eyes and nose associated with strong odor were the most common symptoms reported during the dissection classes. The modified embalming fixative was used less formalin with ethanol-glycerin mixture, and it was suitable for the study of medical students, with few side effects of respiratory problems. However, the modified exhaust ventilation with local table-exhaust ventilation and heating-ventilation-air conditioning system performance were urgent issues for reducing levels of formaldehyde indoor air in the dissection room.