The action of prostaglandin E2 and triamcinolone acetonide on the firing activity of lumbar nerve roots.

Sciatica, due to lumbar disc herniation, is understood electrophysiogically to be an ectopic firing originating from a nerve root. The recent concept of chemical radiculitis implies the involvement, not only of mechanical compression, but also of chemical mediators which contribute to the generation of ectopic firing. The present study demonstrates that prostaglandin E2, a chemical mediator of inflammation, provoked the ectopic firing of nerve roots in a canine in vitro model which indicates that it may play a part in the irritation of nerve roots. In contrast, triamcinolone acetonide suppressed the firing induced by prostaglandin suggesting that steroids may be effective in the treatment of root symptoms.