Optimization of cold injury prevention and treatment: an experimental justification for the use of arachidonic acid cascade inhibitors

Abstract

Exposure to cold can produce a spectrum of injuries resulting from the human body's i nability to adapt to low temperatures. These injuries can be divided into localized (peripheral cold inj uries) and systemic ones due to generalized cooling of the entire body (systemic hypothermia). Pathogenesis of the cold injuries is complex. But one of the main role is played by products of arachidonic acid metabolism, such as prostaglandin F2α, thromboxane B2, leukotriene B4 and prostacyclin [2]. So it is possible to improve resistance to cold through the regulation of prostaglandins’ and leukotrienes’ levels. It has been shown that a number of NSAIDs and antileukotrienes can be used to expand the possibilities of frigoprotective therapy. But further research is needed to determine the real possibilities and prospects for the use of individual frigoprotective agents.