The PABA story

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#4-aminobenzoic-acid #australia #drug-eruptions #history-20th-century #humans

The PABA story

Mackie et al., 1999 | Australas J Dermatol | Other

Citation

Mackie B S, Mackie L E. The PABA story. Australas J Dermatol. 1999-Feb;40(1):51-3

Abstract

The qualities of para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) are discussed and an account is given of how it came to be the favourite sunscreen of the post World War II era. Slowly, however, dermatologists became aware that it was a fairly common sensitizer and that it tended to cross-sensitize with compounds of similar chemical structure both in contact with the skin and given as systemic drugs. Furthermore, continued exposure to chemicals of this type could lead to autoimmune responses especially systemic lupus erythematosus and dermatomyositis. Discussion of these complications from the use of PABA took place at two meetings of the Dermatological Association of Australia in 1964 and 1965, and played a part in the slow withdrawal of PABA from sunscreens.

Key Findings

Discussion of these complications from the use of PABA took place at two meetings of the Dermatological Association of Australia in 1964 and 1965, and played a part in the slow withdrawal of PABA from sunscreens.

Outcomes Measured

  • Requires manual extraction

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size See abstract
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • 4-Aminobenzoic Acid
  • Australia
  • Drug Eruptions
  • History, 20th Century
  • Humans
  • Sunscreening Agents

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Other
  • Publication Types: Historical Article, Journal Article
  • Vertical: paba

Provenance

  • PMID: 10098293
  • DOI: (not available)
  • PMCID: Not in PMC
  • Verified: 2026-04-12 via PubMed E-utilities API

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-12