An animal model for evaluating the local and systemic effects of topically applied corticosteroids on epidermal DNA synthesis.

A simple animal model for studying topically applied glucocorticosteroids for their effect on epidermal DNA synthesis is described. It is designed so that their potential for systemic side effects may be predicted and its usefulness in this respect is illustrated by the results obtained with two of the steroids investigated. One, a new formulation Temetex, is predicted to have considerable systemic potential. The other, Molivate, is remarkable for having moderate local, without demonstrable systemic activity.