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.

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