Cytologic examination of the nasal mucosa in formaldehyde-exposed workers.
A cross-sectional study of 80 individuals at three locations was undertaken to evaluate the health effects of long-term exposure to formaldehyde in a phenol-formaldehyde impregnating process and to develop a useful protocol for health surveillance of formaldehyde-exposed workers. Results of physical examinations showed a statistically significant prevalence of mucosal irritation in formaldehyde-exposed workers, particularly those with recent exposure. Cytologic examination of exfoliated nasal cells showed atypical squamous metaplasia, which was found to be a function of age. There was no statistical relationship to formaldehyde exposure.
D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005557:Formaldehyde / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D008679:Metaplasia / Q000139:chemically induced; D008875:Middle Aged; D009297:Nasal Mucosa / Q000473:pathology*; D009298:Nasal Polyps / Q000139:chemically induced; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000473:pathology
D005557:Formaldehyde