ABSTRACT
Triorthocresyl phosphate inhibits non-specific cholinesterase but not acetylcholinesterase. The relationship between this inhibition and the nerve demyelinization is unknown. Formaldehyde is a gas that is ordinarily available as a 40% solution for use as a disinfectant, an antiseptic, a deodorant, a tissue fixative, or an embalming fluid. Exposure to formaldehyde in air causes respiratory tract and eye irritation. Pathologic findings from the ingestion of formaldehyde are necrosis and shrinking of the mucous membranes. Degenerative changes may be found in the liver, kidneys, heart, and brain. Clothing and papers containing free formaldehyde cause sensitivity dermatitis in some individuals. Paraldehyde and metaldehyde presumably are decomposed slowly to acetaldehyde in the body. In the case of paraldehyde, the rate apparently does not exceed the rate of acetaldehyde oxidation, so that acetaldehyde does not accumulate. Pathologic findings in deaths from acetaldehyde poisoning are pulmonary irritation and edema. After paraldehyde or metaldehyde poisoning findings are not characteristic.
