[Prednisolone as a calcification inhibitor--a calciphylactic experiment in the rat pancreas]

In the experimental situation the inhibitory potency of prednisolone on soft tissue calcification is confirmed. This glucocorticoid was locally applied prior to the commencement of a mastocalciphylactic experiment (Selye). Dosage: 10 mg per animal, body mass 150-180 g. In 16 out of 17 female rats there were no calcified deposits in the interstitium of the pancreas but in nearly all of the control animals a typical calciphylactic reaction could be found. It is suggested that glucocorticoids act by alteration of pancreatic mast cells.