Exposure to formaldehyde can result in a variety of clinical findings depending on the intensity and duration of the exposure. While relatively safe at low concentrations formaldehyde can be toxic. In addition, some people develop an allergy to it.
Acute inhalation exposure:
(1) nasal irritation with rhinitis
(2) burning sensation in eyes with lacrimation
(3) throat irritation with cough
(4) dyspnea
(5) headache
Allergic reactions in sensitized individuals may occur at low concentrations:
(1) contact dermatitis or urticaria
(2) asthma
Acute ingestion can cause:
(1) corrosion of upper GI tract with abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea
(2) metabolic acidosis
(3) hypotension
(4) renal failure
(5) coma
(6) respiratory failure
Other acute exposures:
(1) skin burns at high concentrations
(2) ocular burns with corneal ulcerations
Chronic exposure:
(1) a theoretical maybe carcinogen
(2) possibly miscarriage
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