A factor in the vitamin B complex, a part of all folic acid s and required for its formation; neutralizes the bacteriostatic effects of the sulfonamides since it furnishes an essential growth factor for bacteria, with the utilization of which the sulfonamides interfere; used as an ultraviolet screen in lotions and creams. It is produced in a test of pancreatic function. SYN: paraaminobenzoic acid, vitamin Bx.
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p-ami·no·ben·zo·ic ac·id (PAB) (PABA) (ə-me″no-ben-zoґik) a substance required for the synthesis of folic acid by many organisms. PABA is included in the B vitamin complex, although it is not an essential nutrient for humans. It also absorbs ultraviolet light, specifically ultraviolet B, and is used as aminobenzoic acid [USP] as a topical sunscreen.Medical dictionary. 2011.