The role of leukotrienes as mediators of microvascular permeability changes (assessed through the accumulation of [99mTc]albumin) associated with immediate hypersensitivity reactions in the guinea-pig conjunctiva was investigated by means of two novel, structurally dissimilar 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors, L-651,392 and L-651,896. Both compounds, when applied topically in vivo to the eyes of sensitized guinea-pigs as a 0.1% suspension significantly inhibited 5-lipoxygenase in the conjunctiva as assessed by ex vivo challenge with either antigen or ionophore A23187 and measurement of the release of leukotriene B4-immunoreactive material. Topical application of antigen (either single challenge or 2 challenges separated by 24 h) to the eyes of sensitized guinea-pigs produced changes in conjunctival permeability which were blocked in part by either mepyramine (H1-receptor antagonist) or the 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors. Combinations of mepyramine and L-651,896 resulted in near complete suppression of the permeability response, suggesting that the reaction is mediated only by histamine and leukotrienes.