Therapeutic effect of chai-ling-tang (sairei-to) on the steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome in children.

37 children with steroid-dependent nephrotic syndrome (SDNS) were administered with Chai-Ling-Tang (Sairei-to) under corticosteroid. After treatment with Chai-Ling-Tang, relapse was markedly improved, time for negative conversion of proteinuria shortened, prednisone dosage significantly reduced, and side effects eased. 32 children with SDNS treated with prednisone and cyclophosphamide served as control. Results showed that short-term and long-term relapse and average prednisone dosage were similar between these two groups. It is considered that Chai-Ling-Tang may be a useful substitute for patients with SDNS who fail to respond to or manifest severe toxic effect from cytotoxic agents.