Inhibitory effects of glucocorticoids on increased vascular permeability caused by passive cutaneous anaphylaxis and some chemical mediators in rats

Abstract

Effects of hydrocortisone, prednisolone and dexamethasone on IgE antibody-mediated homologous passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) and mediator-induced skin reactions were investigated. PCA and skin reactions were evoked at the same time in the dorsal skin of a rat. Administrations of glucocorticoids inhibited not only the PCA but also the skin reactions caused by histamine, serotonin and leukotriene (LT) C4 significantly. It is suggested, therefore, that glucocorticoids inhibit the increase of vascular permeability non-specifically. This action of glucocorticoids might contribute at least in part to its inhibitory effect on the PCA.