Microbial Evaluation of Embalmed Cadavers as a Potential Source of Infection in Anatomy Dissection Laboratory

Background: Cadaveric dissection is indispensable tool in learning human anatomy. Cadaveric dissection continues to excel despite the development of new and cutting-edge learning modalities for anatomy, such as virtual dissection tables and 3D software, since it allows students to visualize the human body and is the most realistic method of learning anatomy. The microbial evaluation of embalmed cadavers is a critical concern in anatomy laboratories, as it impacts both medical education quality and the safety of students and staff. This study aimed to assess the presence of harmful bacteria and fungi on embalmed cadavers despite the embalming process, focusing on the potential implications for infection risk within the anatomy laboratory environment. Aim: The goal of this investigation was to see if the anatomy dissection hall’s potential source of bacteria that could put students at risk of illness came from the cadavers fixed in formalin. Materials and Methods: Using a cross-sectional approach, swab samples were collected from various anatomical sites of 25 embalmed cadavers. These samples were cultured on suitable media to facilitate microbial growth, followed by identification through biochemical analyses. The microbiology department received samples from the swabs collected from different sites of cadavers for culture and sensitivity testing. Results: The research conducted by our team was effective in recovering and identifying a range of organisms from the cadavers using traditional bacteriologic culture and identification techniques. The findings show cadavers treated with 10% diluted formalin have live, potentially contaminating microbes on their surfaces. Given the variety of cultivated species, preserved cadavers were considered as a potential source for the spread of bacterial organisms. Conclusion: The findings suggest that instructors and students might get infections from cadavers treated with formalin. This study emphasizes the need for protocols to reduce cross contamination.