Critical airway induced by formalin injection: case report.

BACKGROUND

Formalin is a saturated aqueous solution comprising 37-40 per cent formaldehyde. It is often used in histopathology laboratories as a tissue preservative. The ingestion or injection of formalin has an immediate, powerful and destructive impact on humans. This paper reports a case of formalin injection and reviews the relevant world literature.

CASE REPORT

A 36-year-old male attempted suicide by injecting formalin into the right side of his neck, resulting in a critical airway situation. An endotracheal tube was inserted and a tracheostomy was then performed to secure his airway. After receiving medical treatment, including antibiotics and N-acetyl cysteine, the status of the patient's airway improved.

CONCLUSION

When examining patients who have injected substances into their neck, the possibility of deep neck inflammation with airway compromise should be considered. Immediate management, which should include establishment of a definitive airway and prophylactic infection control, is crucial.