Effect of BN 52021, a platelet activating factor antagonist, on experimental murine contact dermatitis.

A specific platelet activating factor (PAF) receptor antagonist, BN 52021, was tested for its efficacy in modulating DNFB-induced allergic and croton oil-induced irritant contact dermatitis in mouse ears. Oral treatment of the animals in the elicitation phase of the dermatitis caused a significant suppression of DNFB-induced ear swelling. The compound was less active in croton oil-induced irritant dermatitis and ineffective when given during the sensitization phase of allergic dermatitis. The results provide indirect evidence for the involvement of PAF in the effector phase of murine contact dermatitis of the allergic type and also the irritant type to a lesser extent.