What is cyclophosphamide pulse therapy?
By now, cyclophosphamide pulse therapy (CPT) is the therapeutic standard in systemic vasculitis such as systemic lupus erythematosus, vasculitic forms of rheumatoid arthritis, and granulomatosis with polyangiitis [11].
How do you administer cyclophosphamide pulse therapy?
Intermittent pulse therapy protocol Intermittent pulse cyclophosphamide therapy was given intravenously at a dose of 10 mg/kg three weekly for four doses, then orally at the same dose split over two days at four weekly interval for nine months, and finally at six weekly intervals for 12 months (appendix 1).
What is End Stage Scleroderma?
This type of scleroderma is typically accompanied by shortness of breath, a persistent cough, and the inability to perform routine physical activities. End-stage scleroderma often causes pulmonary fibrosis and/or pulmonary hypertension, both of which can be life-threatening.
Are Biologics used for scleroderma?
Rituximab is the most extensive studied biologic in systemic sclerosis. Rituximab is a chimeric human mouse monoclonal antibody which binds CD20-antigen on B cells and by binding to the Fc region leads to cell death.
How long does it take for cyclophosphamide to work?
Cyclophosphamide does not work immediately. It may take 6 weeks or more to produce an effect.
What are the side effects of cyclophosphamide?
Cyclophosphamide may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- nausea.
- vomiting.
- loss of appetite or weight.
- abdominal pain.
- diarrhea.
- hair loss.
- sores on the mouth or tongue.
- changes in skin color.
What is pulse treatment?
Pulse therapy refers to the administration of a drug intermittently to accelerate the therapeutic efficacy. In other words pulse therapy refers to intravenous infusion of high dose of steroids for one or more days for quicker, better efficacy and to decrease the side effects of long-term steroids.[10,11,12]
What is the mechanism of action of cyclophosphamide?
MECHANISM OF ACTION: Cyclophosphamide is an alkylating agent of the nitrogen mustard type. 2 An activated form of cyclophosphamide, phosphoramide mustard, alkylates, or binds, to DNA. Its cytotoxic effect is mainly due to cross-linking of strands of DNA and RNA, and to inhibition of protein synthesis.
How do I know if my scleroderma is progressing?
You may notice your skin thickening and shiny areas developing around your mouth, nose, fingers, and other bony areas. As the condition progresses, you may begin start to have limited movement of the affected areas. Other symptoms include: hair loss.
What is the best lotion for scleroderma?
Some individuals with scleroderma use raw coconut oil or shea butter to moisturize. Itchy skin is a common symptom that can be somewhat relieved by taking care of the skin. CeraVe lotion has been a lifesaver, as it keeps the moisture locked in my skin all day and doesn’t leave behind a greasy film.