Paba
Also known as paba, para aminobenzoic acid, para-aminobenzoic acid
Key takeaways
- PABA can be used as a marker for the completeness of 24-hour urine collection (PMID: 12548308).
- Serum PABA determination has been explored for diagnostic value in pancreatic disease (PMID: 2698170).
- Historical application of PABA was noted in the treatment of various dermatoses and cutaneous lymphomas (PMID: 18933516, PMID: 13126914).
What the research shows
AI-synthesized from 7 peer-reviewed sources · Updated 2025
Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) is a compound historically used in dermatology and as a diagnostic marker. Current research evidence provided is limited and primarily focuses on its use as a urinary marker or in outdated dermatological treatments.
By condition
General Health/Diagnostics
Insufficient
PABA has been utilized as a marker for 24-hour urine completeness and for diagnostic serum determination in pancreatic disease.
Dermatological Conditions
Weak
Older case reports and studies suggest use in scleroderma, lymphoblastoma cutis, and mycosis fungoides, though these are not supported by modern high-quality trials.
Effective doses
Not provided in the available RCT data.
Safety & interactions
No specific interactions or contraindications were detailed in the provided source abstracts.
Limitations
The available evidence is heavily skewed toward very old studies (1940s-50s) and diagnostic applications rather than therapeutic efficacy. There is a lack of modern, large-scale RCTs to support clinical use.
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Research evidence
Showing top 10 of 7 sources, sorted by quality
**Jakobsen et al., 2003** | Eur J Clin Nutr | Rct Jakobsen J, Pedersen A N, Ovesen L. Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) used as a marker for completeness of 24 hour urine: effects of age and dosage scheduling. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2003-Jan;57(1):13…
**von et al., 1989** | Gastroenterol J | Rct von Kleist D, Rössler W, ... Hampel K E. [The diagnostic value of serum PABA determination in pancreatic disease and in relation to anticholinergic medication]. Gastroenterol J. 1989;49(3):108-12…
**ZARAFONETIS et al., 1948** | J Lab Clin Med | Other ZARAFONETIS C J D. Para-aminobenzoic acid therapy in scleroderma and lymphoblastoma cutis. J Lab Clin Med. 1948-Nov;33(11):1462 *No abstract available* *Requires manual extraction from f…
**Mackie et al., 1999** | Australas J Dermatol | Other Mackie B S, Mackie L E. The PABA story. Australas J Dermatol. 1999-Feb;40(1):51-3 The qualities of para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) are discussed and an account is given of how it came to …
**GRAYSON et al., 1952** | J Invest Dermatol | Other GRAYSON L D, STEINER K. Sodium para-aminobenzoate PABA in the treatment of dermatoses. J Invest Dermatol. 1952-Dec;19(6):463-6 *No abstract available* *Requires manual extraction from ful…
**ZARAFONETIS et al., 1954** | Cancer | Other ZARAFONETIS C J, CURTIS A C, KIRKMAN L W. Para-aminobenzoic acid therapy in lymphoblastoma cutis and mycosis fungoides. Cancer. 1954-Jan;7(1):190-201 *No abstract available* *Requires manual ext…
**Allen et al., 1996** | J Photochem Photobiol B | Other Allen J M, Gossett C J, Allen S F. Photochemical formation of singlet molecular oxygen (1O2) in illuminated aqueous solutions of p-aminobenzoic acid (PABA). J Photochem Photobiol B. 1…
Frequently asked questions
What is PABA and what is it used for?
Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) is a compound historically used in dermatology and as a diagnostic marker. Current research evidence is limited and primarily focuses on its use as a urinary marker or in outdated dermatological treatments.
Does PABA work for skin conditions like scleroderma?
Evidence for PABA in treating skin conditions is weak. Older case reports suggest use in scleroderma and other conditions, but these are not supported by modern high-quality trials, so research is limited.
What is the effective dose of PABA for health benefits?
Effective doses are not provided in the available research data. You should consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice, as specific dosage guidelines are not established in the current evidence.
Is PABA safe to take with other medications?
No specific drug interactions or contraindications were detailed in the provided source abstracts. However, individuals on medications should consult a healthcare provider before use to ensure safety.
Who should avoid taking PABA supplements?
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, as well as those with pancreatic disease, should consult a healthcare provider before use. PABA has been explored for diagnostic value in pancreatic disease, so medical guidance is essential.
Does PABA help with pancreatic disease diagnosis?
Serum PABA determination has been explored for diagnostic value in pancreatic disease, but this is a diagnostic marker rather than a treatment. Evidence for its clinical utility is limited and should be interpreted by a medical professional.
Can PABA be used as a marker for urine collection?
Yes, PABA can be used as a marker for the completeness of 24-hour urine collection. This application is supported by research, though it is primarily a diagnostic tool rather than a therapeutic supplement.