Interesting stuff, DMSO. Its used in the UK by neuroradiologists as a carrier/solvent in neurovascular embolisation and also as a solvent which facilitates the penetration of idoxuridine in the treatment of herpes zoster (shingles).Its role in shingles has been superceded by antivirals such as aciclovir these days.Theres some evidence of its effects in amyloidosis and scleroderma but its not licensed for these conditions, AFAIK.It is licensed for use in the UK to treat interstitial cystitis but does require close monitoring for renal, ocular and hepatic side-effects.