Cynthia D. Downard, L. Roberts, J. Morrow
Apr 1, 1995
Citations
1
Influential Citations
30
Citations
Quality indicators
Journal
Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics
Abstract
Benzoic acid is one of the most commonly used preservatives in cosmetics, foodstuffs, and drug preparations. Nonetheless, products containing this compound frequently induce cutaneous erythema. Previous studies have suggested that prostaglandins may mediate the cutaneous vasodilation because ingestion of cyclooxygenase inhibitors before the application of benzoic acid markedly diminishes this symptom. However, the prostaglandin responsible has not been conclusively determined. Recently we showed that cutaneous erythema similar to that associated with application of benzoic acid is induced by the topical administration of another preservative, sorbic acid, and is mediated by the increased biosynthesis of prostaglandin (PG)D2 in the skin. This study was designed to determine whether the cutaneous vasodilation induced by benzoic acid is mediated by this prostaglandin in humans.