To what extent can indolent lymphoma be considered? Results of a long term follow-up study from a single center

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND 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. DESIGN AND 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). INTERPRETATION AND 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.