To what extent can indolent lymphoma be considered? Results of a long term follow-up study from a single center.
OBJECTIVE
In general, low-grade non-Hodgkin's lymphomas are characterized by a low to moderate proliferative activity and a long clinical course with median survival times ranging from approximately 3 years to 5-8 years. We reviewed data of 209 low-grade non-Hodgkin's lymphoma entered in our institute in 1975 to 1986 to assess their survival.


METHODS
Treatment was given according to disease stage and current protocols. Thirty patients were treated with radiation therapy, 21 patients with a single alkylating agent, 145 patients with polychemotherapy, and 13 patients were included in the watchful waiting conservative approach.


RESULTS
With a median follow-up of 13 years, the actuarial overall survival rates at 5, 10, and 15 years were 60%, 38%, and 27%, respectively. The relapse-free survival was 66% at 5 years, 57% at 10 years, and 45% at 15 years. Concerning the 38 continuous complete responders, 21 were stage I-II and 17 were patients in advanced stage (III-IV).


CONCLUSIONS
Therapy of low-grade lymphomas depends mainly on the extent of the disease. Advanced stage disease is often considered incurable. The possibility to obtain a little percentage of complete response must provide considerations in the search for new therapeutic strategies.
Institute of Hematology and Medical Oncology Seràgnoli, University of Bologna, Italy.
P L
PL
Zinzani
M
M
Magagnoli
F
F
Gherlinzoni
M
M
Bendandi
P
P
Albertini
E
E
Merla
S
S
Tura
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008228:Lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin / Q000401:mortality* / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016019:Survival Analysis