An investigation of respiratory symptoms and spirometry parameters in pathological laboratories employees

Background: Formaldehyde is a chemical active material with stabilizer and disinfectant applications in pathology laboratories. One of its side-effects is respiratory problems which were studied in this research.

Materials and Method: Thirty-eight subjects exposed to formaldehyde and 23 unexposed personals at pathological laboratories were studied with regard to their respiratory symptoms and functions. “Exposure Questionnaire”, spirometry and environmental measurement were used for this purpose.

Results: Nasal and throat burning were achieved the highest incidence and other symptoms including hoarseness, cough and dyspnea in exposure group, respectively. Many symptoms were significantly associated with time-pattern and/or exposure intensity.

Conclusion: Unchanged spirometric values could be due to intermittent exposure. However, regarding to the high incidence rate of respiratory symptoms and high concentration of the formaldehyde in laboratories, effective ventilation.