In Scleroderma Lung Study II (SLS II), patients with symptomatic systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease were randomized to

Question

In Scleroderma Lung Study II (SLS II), patients with symptomatic systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease were randomized to mycophenolate mofetil for 24 months or oral cyclophosphamide for 12 months followed by placebo. Which statement most accurately describes the trial findings?

Accepted Answer

The 24-month FVC course did not differ significantly between groups; lung function improved in both, while MMF was better tolerated and less toxic.

Answer

Cyclophosphamide produced a statistically superior 24-month FVC course, although MMF had fewer haematological adverse effects and fewer premature treatment withdrawals.

Answer

MMF met a prespecified non-inferiority margin against cyclophosphamide for FVC and had no significant advantage in haematological toxicity or treatment persistence.

Answer

MMF produced a statistically superior 24-month FVC course and significantly lower mortality than cyclophosphamide, confirming superiority for both efficacy and safety.

Answer

Neither treatment improved lung function; MMF was favoured solely because it reduced quantitative HRCT fibrosis despite having similar treatment-withdrawal rates.

SLS II Trial — SCE Rheumatology MCQ

In Scleroderma Lung Study II (SLS II), patients with symptomatic systemic sclerosis-associated interstitial lung disease were randomized to mycophenolate mofetil for 24 months or oral cyclophosphamide for 12 months followed by placebo. Which statement most accurately describes the trial findings?