[Rituximab in the treatment of indolent non-Hodgkin's lymphoma]

Lijec Vjesn. 2004 Nov-Dec;126(11-12):307-11.
[Article in Croatian]

Abstract

Indolent Non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (NHL) are a group of slowly progressive immune system malignancies that cannot be cured with conventional treatment. Rituximab is an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody that has recently become a part of the standard treatment of B-cell lymphoid malignancies. Here we present our experience in 25 patients with indolent NHL treated with rituximab with or without chemotherapy. Rituximab was administered at 3-4 week intervals in the standard dose of 375 mg/m2. 88% of the patients responded, 16 achieved a complete and 6 partial remission. Estimated 2-year actuarial survival is 63%. Response and survival rates were significantly better in patients with favorable prognosis (lower IPI score). Adverse effects related to rituximab occurred in 2 patients and were mild. Our results are completely comparable to previously reported studies and show that rituximab is effective and safe for the treatment of indolent B-cell NHL.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / adverse effects
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal / therapeutic use*
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived
  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin / drug therapy*
  • Lymphoma, Non-Hodgkin / mortality
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Rituximab
  • Survival Rate

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Antibodies, Monoclonal, Murine-Derived
  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Rituximab