Original Articles
Beneficial effects of cyclophosphamide on the relapse rate, duration of remission and the clinical state of the disease in patients with frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome
Author:
UK Jayantha
Senior Lecturer in Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Galle., LK
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
How to Cite:
Jayantha, U., 2008. Beneficial effects of cyclophosphamide on the relapse rate, duration of remission and the clinical state of the disease in patients with frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome. Sri Lanka Journal of Child Health, 36(4), pp.133–134. DOI: http://doi.org/10.4038/sljch.v36i4.73
Published on
24 Sep 2008.
Peer Reviewed
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