[Percutaneous resorption of salicylic acid methylester from bathing solutions]

Skin uptake of salicylic acid methylester (SAM) by bathing in PERNIONIN -Teilbad (Krewel-Werke, Eitorf) and KNEIPP-Wacholderölbad (Kneipp-Werke, Würzburg) was researched with pigs and human volunteers. In plasma, no SAM was found, only salicylic acid (SA) and traces of salicyluric acid (SU). Skin uptake increased after every new application in 2 h. About 30 mg SAM permeated through an area of pig's skin of 300 cm2 in this time. Plasma levels after whole body bathing of man with PERNIONIN at 36 degrees C were about 0.63 micrograms/g and with Wacholderölbad about 0.37 microgram/g SA. With Wacholderölbad at 38-42 degrees C plasma levels increased to about 1 micrograms/g SA. In 24 h after bathing at 36 degrees C 329 and 304 mg SU were eliminated in urine and after bathing at 38-42 degrees C only 17.8 mg SU. From these SAM baths we found maximal plasma levels of SS in contrast to any other topical applied SS drug. Tissue levels from the application area were higher than the systemic concentration. SAM bathing is one of the most effective methods of local SS application in rheumatology.