Further observations on the treatment of lupus nephritis with prednisone and combined prednisone and azathioprine

Abstract

Abstract In extending an initial 6‐month study to 3 years, treatment of patients with lupus nephritis by a combination of prednisone and azathioprine did not control the systemic or renal manifestations any better than did treatment with prednisone alone. There were no differences in major renal disease flares between the two treatment groups. The incidence and duration of systemic, nonrenal flares were greater in the combined treatment group but did not increase after treatment with azathioprine was discontinued.