The Evaluation of Topical Anti-inflammatory Activity on Rat Ears Subjected to Thermal Injury

Abstract

Topical anti-inflammatory activity of steroidal and nonsteroidal agents was assessed on inflammation produced by heat. A burn was produced on the ears of rats and the inflammation was quantitated gravimetrically. Steroidal anti-inflammatory agents were ranked in order of decreasing activity: triamcinolone acetonide, dexamethasone, prednisolone and hydrocortisone acetate. The nonsteroidal agents phenylbutazone and indomethacin were also effective in inhibiting the inflammation. Cholesterol, a steroid devoid of anti-inflammatory activity, was inactive in this test. Hydrocortisone acetate, in particulars appears to be less effective in inhibiting this type of inflammation than inflammation produced by croton oil