Comparison of high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone with low-dose oral prednisolone in acute renal allograft rejection in children. Issue 6337 (24th July 1982)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Orta-Sibu, N; Chantler, C; Bewick, M; Haycock, G
• Is Part Of: BMJ. Volume 285:Issue 6337(1982)
• Page Start: 258
• Page End: 260
• Publication Date: 1982-07-24
• Subjects: Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine; Periodicals; 610
• DOI: 10.1136/bmj.285.6337.258
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1447

Abstract

Abstract : Two corticosteroid regimens were compared in a randomised, prospective study of 48 consecutive acute rejection episodes occurring at least one month after transplantation in 22 children who had received renal allografts. The higher dose schedule (intravenous methylprednisolone 600 mg/m2 daily for three days) was no more effective than the lower (oral prednisolone 3 mg/kg daily for three days) in reversing rejection, being successful in 70% as opposed to 72% of episodes. Few major side effects were seen with either treatment, but unpleasant sensations were reported much more frequently in the group given intravenous methylprednisolone; this regimen was much more disruptive of the patient's life. Oral prednisolone in the dosage described is as effective as about 10 times that dose of intravenous methylprednisolone; it is much cheaper and is viewed as less unpleasant by patients.