Comparative Assessment of Efficacy of Prednisolone and Cyclosporine in Canine Pemphigus Complex

Abstract

Background: Immunosuppressant is the mainstay of treatment in canine pemphigus infection and often the treatment is of chronic course in nature. Prolonged use of immunosuppressant leads to various adverse effects.Objective: There is a need to study the comparative efficacy of immunosuppressant agents in canine pemphigus complex.Methods: Dogs presented with clinical signs suggestive of pemphigus complex were enrolled into the study and diagnosed based on the acantholytic cells evidence in the cytology of skin impression smear and histomorphology. Dogs were randomly divided into two groups. Gr.1 was treated with Prednisolone @ 2mg/Kg PO (dose tapered later once in every 7 days for 3 weeks) and Gr. II was treated with Cyclosporine @ 5 mg/Kg PO for 3 weeks. Dogs were monitored for resolution of clinical signs and hematobiochemical changes during therapy.Results: Prednisolone treated dogs showed faster response in contrast to cyclosporine group but, recurrence of clinical signs was noticed in few dogs when the dose was tapered. But, cyclosporine treated dogs responded favourably with mild gastric discomfort without any changes in the liver and kidney function markers. There was no significant difference in the complete blood count and vital organs markers (BUN, Creatinine, SGPT, and ALP) before and after therapy except blood glucose level. Conclusion:Cyclosporine treated dogs responded favourably as compared to prednisolone treated dogs.