Factors affecting the duration of phase I of dexamethasone - cyclophosphamide pulse therapy.

BACKGROUND

The introduction of dexamethasone-cyclophosphamide pulse (DCP) therapy for the pemphigus group of disorders by Pasricha has revolutionized the therapy for pemphigus. There are very few studies regarding factors affecting duration of phase I of the DCP.

AIMS: Our purpose was to study the relationship between various factors and duration of the phase I.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 98 patients of pemphigus on Dexamethasone Pulse therapy was conducted. Patients were classified according to duration of Phase 1 as those with phase I less than 6 months and those more than 6 months and analyzed for variable factors affecting duration of phase I.

RESULTS

Disease severity in pemphigus significantly prolonged the duration of phase I of DCP. Longer duration was also observed in patients on concurrent oral steroid therapy (both statistically significant).

CONCLUSION

The findings from our study help us to address patient expectations and apprehensions regarding duration of therapy. A detailed understanding of the various patient and disease related factors responsible for affecting Phase I duration will help in better management of the patient, and the disease.