Formaldehyde: Uses, Effects, Side Effects, Dosage, Interactions, Risks

Formaldehyde (HCHO) is a gas that is colorless but has a strong odor.

It is found in smoked foods in addition to building materials such as particle board, insulation, or paints, but especially in tobacco smoke. Furthermore, there are also hair straightening agents containing formaldehyde (not approved in the EU).

Formaldehyde is irritating to the skin and mucous membranes and can cause allergies. It can be absorbed through the skin.

Formaldehyde has carcinogenic (cancer-causing) potential. It can cause cancer in the nasopharynx (nasopharynx). Recently, a possible link between formaldehyde and the occurrence of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has also been discussed. Formaldehyde is used in medicine primarily as a disinfectant or as a fixative.

Symptoms of acute poisoning with formaldehyde are:

  • Eczema
  • Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the conjunctiva)
  • Inflammation of the respiratory tract such as rhinitis (cold) or bronchitis.
  • Inflammation of the digestive tract
  • Kidney damage
  • Intoxication
  • Burns

Symptoms of chronic poisoning with formaldehyde are:

  • Bronchial asthma

The procedure

Material needed

  • Blood serum if allergy is suspected
  • Spontaneous urine if formaldehyde exposure is suspected

Preparation of the patient

  • Not necessary

Disruptive factors

  • Not known

Standard values

Normal value – blood serum negative
Normal value – spontaneous urine 2-30 mg/l

Indications

  • Suspicion of formaldehyde allergy
  • Suspicion of formaldehyde exposure

Interpretation

Interpretation of lowered values

  • Not relevant to disease

Interpretation of elevated values

  • Formaldehyde allergy
  • Formaldehyde exposure