Comparative testing of seven wound dressings (WD) has been performed with human HaCaT keratinocyte and mouse 3T3 fibroblast cultures. To assess biocompatibility, morphologic examinations were combined with cell counting. Supernatants were subjected to measurements of tissue peptide antigen (TPS), soluble intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), and interleukins (IL-1α, -1β, -6). Furthermore, monoxygenation, the reduced glutathione/oxidized gluthathione (GSH/ GSSG) ratio and lipid peroxides were determined. Initial morphologic events were noted within the first day of exposure to WD. After 72 h, inhibition of cell growth was observed in the presence of hydrocolloids and hydrogels. The cytochrome-P-450-dependent ethoxyresorufin 0-deethylation rate and the GSH/GSSG ratio were not altered by WD in HaCaT cells. Lipid peroxide generation, IL-1 and ICAM-1 were scarcely detectable. TPS and IL-6 release indicate the presence of an ‘activated stage’ of keratinocytes and fibroblasts exposed to WD. Peptide release in vivo may contribute to the beneficial effects of modern dressings in the treatment of superficial cutaneous wounds.