[Contact hypersensitivity (DNCB test) and inhibition by the calcium channel blocker diltiazem]

We studied the influence of the calcium transport inhibitor diltiazem on epidermal Langerhans cell-induced contact dermatitis against 1-chloro-2.4-dinitrobenzene (DNCB) in Balb/c mice. Diltiazem administered systemically was found to be able to decrease allergic reactions against DNCB. Twenty four hours post challenge animals treated with diltiazem demonstrated a 36% decreased ear swelling compared with non diltiazem-treated animals (p less than 0.001). From these results, we conclude that calcium is important in regulating epidermal Langerhans cell functions and in activating these cells.