Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
Peyronies disease 13 6
Interstitial cystitis 15 2*
Epididymitis 12 7
Herpes progenitalis 5 2
Polycystic kidneys 2 2
Incisional pain, flank 3 3
Vague genital pain 14 1
Discussion
Although these few cases do not constitute an overwhelming group, certain
things can, nevertheless, be concluded. In the first place, no adverse effects
were noted on kidney, liver, gastrointestinal tract, or bone marrow. A few
patients noted rashes in the area of application. These rashes have been ob-
served by other workers and are probably caused by the histamine-liberating
effect of DMSO on the mast cells in the skin. The rash usually disappears
after two or three weeks when the mast cell stores of histamine are depleted. It
is surprising, however, that in only one of the patients in this series applying
DMSO to the genitalia or scrotum was this complication noted. In two of the
patients with interstitial cystitis applying the drug to the lower abdomen, it
554 Annals New Y ork Academy of Sciences
was necessary to discontinue application of 100% solution because of local
irritation, resuming it later on with a less concentrated solution.
Some failures seen in our groups may be a matter of dosage or a result of
application over too brief a period of time. I t is possible that the greatest
use of this compound may be as a vehicle for other drugs. The amazing
property of skin penetration has been described by Stoughton* and has
already been exploited dermatologically .7 We have seen truly remarkable
relief of pain from topical application, and this experience is one shared by
orthopedists in dealing with acute sprains and bursitis. One major drawback to
the indiscriminate use of this agent is the garlic-like odor which is noticeable
on the patients breaths shortly after application. A t times this is offensive to
patients and visitors alike. This inevitable and concomitant side-effect has
made double blind or control studies difficult and very complex.
Our initial experiences with this drug in urology have been interesting
and challenging. There are many other areas that could be explored: e.g.,
renal colic, urethral strictures, and a host of other situations. We hope to
report on these ultimately. As work progresses throughout the world, it is cer-
tain that the exact mechanism of action and true therapeutic worth of this
fascinating substance will come to light.
Summary
DMSO has been used in the treatment of a number of patients with various
genitourinary disorders, including Peyronies disease, interstitial cystitis,
acute epididymitis, vague genitourinary pain syndromes, and polycystic
kidney disease. Although many patients failed to benefit in anyway whatso-
ever, there were some who obtained dramatic and gratifying relief of
symptoms. Further use of the drug in the treatment of these disorders,
particularly when conventional methods of treatment have failed, seems
definitely indicated.
References
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cells by dimethyl sulfoxide. Nature 183 1394-1395.
8. ASHWOOD-SMITH, J. J. 1961. Preservation of mouse bone marrow at -79C with
dimethyl sulfoxide. Nature 190: 1204-1205.
3. DESHPANDE. P. J., J. FELLMAN & S. W . JACOB. 1962. Studies on viability of hearts
following depression of freezing point. Circulation 26(2): 708.
4. STOUGHTON, R . B. Q W. FRITSCH. 1964. Influence of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)
on human percutaneous absorption. Arch. Derm. 9 0 512.
5. ROSENBAUM, E. E. & S. W. JACOB. 1964. Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in musculo-
skeletal injuries and inflammations. Northwestern Med. 6 3 227.
6. SCHERBEL, A. L., L. J. MCCORMACK & M. J. POPPO. 1964. Alteration of collagen in
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7. GOLDMAN. L. & K. W. KITZMILLER. 1965. Topical 5-iodo-2-deoxy-uridine in
dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Ohio Med. J. 61: 532.