Nodular malignant lymphomas: factors affecting complete response rate and survival

Cancer. 1979 Dec;44(6):1983-9. doi: 10.1002/1097-0142(197912)44:6<1983::aid-cncr2820440604>3.0.co;2-4.

Abstract

The records of 109 patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of nodular pattern were reviewed to determine which factors were associated with a favorable response to therapy and prolonged survival. A logistic regression model was utilized to identify the pertinent variables. Prognostic factors associated with a favorable response were, in order of decreasing importance: treatment with an Adriamycin combination regimen, absence of bulky tumor, and no exposure to prior chemotherapy. Thos associated with prolonged survival were: normal hemoglobin level, treatment with an Adriamycin combination regimen, female sex, and no prior exposure to therapy. Achievement of complete remission in these disorders resulted in a statistically longer duration of survival compared to partial responses or failures. Patients whose complete remission was induced with an Adriamycin-containing regimen and maintained with BCG immunotherapy had a significantly longer complete remission than those who did not receive BCG. Knowledge of these factors can be important in planning and analyzing future therapeutic trials.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / administration & dosage
  • BCG Vaccine / therapeutic use
  • Doxorubicin / administration & dosage
  • Drug Resistance
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Female
  • Hemoglobins / analysis
  • Humans
  • Lymphoma / mortality
  • Lymphoma / therapy*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prognosis
  • Remission, Spontaneous
  • Sex Factors
  • Time Factors

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • BCG Vaccine
  • Hemoglobins
  • Doxorubicin