Prostaglandins and other metabolites of arachidonic acid. An overview for the otolaryngologist.

Metabolites of arachidonic acid have important regulatory functions within several areas of concern to the otolaryngologist. Prostaglandins, composing one group, are involved in smooth-muscle contraction, regulation of renal glomerular blood flow, and in the modulation of immune and allergic responses, inflammation, fever, pain, and tumor growth. A second group, the leukotrienes, may be even more important than prostaglandins in allergy and inflammation. The elusive slow-reacting substance of anaphylaxis belongs in this group. Two other metabolites, thromboxane and prostacyclin, seem to be critical in hemostasis and the metastatic spread of tumors.