The influence of phenylquinolin carbonic acid (atophan) and of radium emanation upon the uric acid concentration of the blood

Abstract

The prompt and marked increase in the uric acid output following the administration of 2-phenylquinolin-4-carbonic acid (atophan) has been repeatedly demonstrated. More recently, Folin and Lyman reported a concomitant diminution in the uric acid concentration of the blood, which suggested an increased renal permeability as an important factor in the physiological action of atophan. In the course of our studies with atophan, begun more than a year ago, we have endeavored to ascertain, (1) the promptness with which the decrease in blood uric acid is brought about; (2) the minimum to which it can be reduced; and (3) the rapidity with which the initial concentration is regained after the administration of atophan has ceased. We have observed a marked decrease in the uric acid concentration of the blood after a two day period with atophan; and are attempting to determine more exactly the speed of this reaction. The minimum uric acid concentration of the blood under the influence of atophan varied among twelve individuals (normal, gouty and arthritic) from 0.7 to 2.0 mgm. per hundred grams of blood (initial values −2.0 to 5.7). These minima are apparently irreducible. In one case, the daily administration of 4 grams of atophan for a period of 45 days failed to lower the uric acid below 0.7 mgm. The initial concentration is restored within at leaste to 4 days after the cessation of the use of atophan. Our studies upon the uric acid concentration of the blood under various conditions are being continued, and will include the influence of colchicum and the salicylates. With a radium emanation concentration of 2 to 4 M. U. per liter of air, Gudzent2 claims to have caused uric acid to disappear from the blood for long periods of time.