Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO): experimental uses and toxicity

Dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) is well known for its solvent properties. Because it is well absorbed and has both anti-inflammatory and radical scavenger pr operties it has been widely used in therapeutic to control ischemia-reperfu sion damages, for its analgesic properties and in the treatment of chemical , physical and biological injuries. It has also been used in:several urogen ital, digestive, cutaneous and musculosqueletic diseases. However, none of these treatments appeared better than more traditional ones, except for con troling interstitial cystitis and amyloidosis. Acute DMSO toxicity is well known and linked to its haemolytic and anticholinesterasic properties. By c ontrast, its chronic toxicity is less understood, and long term carcinogeni c studies in animals are not available. DMSO is mutagenic and clastogenic i n vitro, and its reduced metabolite, dimethylsulfite, has been recognised a s <<probable carcinogen>> in human beings. All these factors suggest that D MSO cannot be recommended in large animal practice. In small animals, DMSO must only be used in the absence of more traditional treatment, under the r esponsibility of the practitioner, after information of the owner of the ex perimental character of this practice.