The use of oral cyclophosphamide with dexamethasone pulse therapy in the treatment of pemphigus vulgaris

Abstract

Background: Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is a severe acquired autoimmune disease. During the past 15 years we used dexamethasone pulse therapy (DP) and oral cyclophosphamide for treatment of our patients with PV.

Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy and side effects of this treatment.

Method: The study was a retrospective study. Medical records of 50 known cases of PV, who were treated with dexamethasone pulse therapy and oral cyclophosphamide were evaluated and the patients were re-examined and questioned about their current situations.

Results: Thirty-five females and 15 males were treated, out of which 38 finished the study. At the end of study, 21 patients were in remission, 10 patients were in the healing stage, five patients were partially healed and two patients died. The side effects of this method, especially the adverse effects of cyclophosphamide, were less than previously reported.

Conclusion: Dexamethasone pulse therapy and oral cyclophosphamide is an effective regimen with few side effects in the treatment of mild to moderate PV.