Transkütan

Transkütan is a term derived from Latin, meaning "across the skin." It is commonly used in medical and scientific contexts to describe a process or substance that passes through or is applied to the skin. This can refer to various applications, including medication delivery, diagnostic procedures, or the physical passage of substances.

In pharmacology, transdermal drug delivery systems utilize the skin as a route for administering medications. These systems, often in the form of patches or gels, allow for the continuous and controlled release of drugs into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. This method can improve patient compliance and reduce side effects associated with oral medications. Examples include nicotine patches for smoking cessation, hormone replacement therapy patches, and pain relief patches.

Diagnostic procedures can also employ transkütan methods. For instance, transkütan electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) uses electrodes placed on the skin to deliver electrical impulses to stimulate nerves. This is often used for pain management. Similarly, transkütan oxygen saturation monitoring, commonly known as pulse oximetry, involves a sensor clipped onto a finger or earlobe to measure blood oxygen levels non-invasively through the skin.

The concept of transkütan also applies to the permeability of the skin itself. The skin acts as a barrier, but certain substances can penetrate it. This permeability is influenced by factors such as the chemical properties of the substance, the condition of the skin, and the presence of enhancers. Understanding transkütan penetration is crucial in areas like dermatology, toxicology, and the development of cosmetic and therapeutic products.