Author:

Abstract

Objective To find out the beneficial effects of oral cyclophosphamide in patients with frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome.

Design Prospective study

Setting: University paediatric unit, Galle

Method Patients presenting with frequently relapsing, steroid sensitive nephrotic syndrome were included. Patients were given an 8 week course of oral cyclophosphamide (2.5mg/kg/day). Number of relapses before and after cyclophosphamide therapy, duration of remission and state of the disease were recorded.

Results There were 17 patients included in the study (male 10, female 07). Mean age of onset of the disease was 35.2 months (SD± 4.3). Mean relapse rate before cyclophosphamide therapy was 4.5 per year (SD±1.2). Mean relapse rate after cyclophosphamide therapy was 1.1 per year (SD± 0.9). This decrease in relapse rate was statistically highly significant (P<0.0001). Mean duration of remission after cyclophosphamide therapy was 20 months (SD± 4.8). Subsequently 9 patients became infrequent relapsers and were managed with a standard steroid regime. One child became steroid dependent and 2 remained as frequent relapsers. Seven children were lost to follow up.

Conclusion Cyclophosphamide is a better alternative drug to steroids in patients with relapsing nephrotic syndrome.

Key words: cyclophosphamide, relapse rate, remission, frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome

DOI = 10.4038/sljch.v36i4.73

Sri Lanka Journal of Child Health, 2007; 36: 133-4

Keywords: cyclophosphamide, relapse rate, remission, frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome