Formalin (0.25%) as topical anti-microbial agent in burns.

ABSTRACT

In a prospective controlled trial, 0.25% formalin spray was compared with 2% silver sulfadiazine cream as the local treatment of burns. Formation and separation of eschar, infection and death rates were recorded. In the group receiving formalin, rates of formation and separation of eschar were significantly more (P less than 0.001 and P less than 0.05 resp.) compared to other group. Infection rate and fatality due to infection were also reduced. Other advantages of formalin are ease of application and the low east.