Effect of formalin on respiratory system of albino rats: A histological study

Abstract

Formaldehyde (formalin) is a widely used industrial chemical and is also present in vehicle emissions & embalming fluid. Widespread occurrence of formaldehyde alarmed scientists to see its possible effects on living systems. In a number of previous studies, it was found genotoxic and carcinogenic to animals including rats, monkeys and hamsters etc. Multiple studies were also done on humans to see its possible carcinogenic effects. This study was conducted to see the histological effects of formalin on the respiratory tract of albino rats. 60 rats were taken for the experiment which were divided into 3 groups. 6 rats were used as controls while 3 subgroups of 18 rats each were exposed to formalin inhalation for 9, 18 and 36 days respectively.