Prostaglandins and Other Metabolites of Arachidonic Acid: An Overview for the Otolaryngologist

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Abstract
• Metabolites of arachidonic acid have important regulatory functions within several areas of concern to the otolaryngologist. Prostaglandins, composing one group, are involved in smooth-muscle contraction, regulation of renal glomerular blood flow, and in the modulation of immune and allergic responses, inflammation, fever, pain, and tumor growth. A second group, the leukotrienes, may be even more important than prostaglandins in allergy and inflammation. The elusive slow-reacting substance of anaphylaxis belongs in this group. Two other metabolites, thromboxane and prostacyclin, seem to be critical in hemostasis and the metastatic spread of tumors. (Arch Otolaryngol 1985;111:317-321)