Cyclophosphamide pulse therapy in patients with active, steroid-refractory inflammatory bowel disease

Aims: Cyclophosphamide (CYC) has proven efficacy in various forms of systemic vasculitis. Two recent pilot studies showed safety and efficacy of the drug in acute steroid refractory inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) as well (Stallmach A, Gut 2003;52, Schmidt C, Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2006;24). Aims: To determine the clinical benefit of intravenous cyclophosphamide pulse therapy in steroid-refractory inflammatory bowel disease for induction and maintenance of remission. Methods: 13 patients (Crohn's disease, n=12; Indeterminate Colitis n=1) with moderate to severe steroid-refractory inflammatory bowel disease (CDA…