EORTC study of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma: Phase III study comparing CHVmP-VB and ProMACE-MOPP in patients with stage II, III, and IV intermediate- and high-grade lymphoma

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Abstract
In the EORTC lymphoma cooperative group, a randomized phase III study was done for patients with stage II, III, IV intermediate- and high-grade lymphoma. Eight courses of CHVmP-VB were compared to eight courses of ProMACE-MOPP. Response was evaluated after 8 courses. Of 430 patients entered, 346 were eligible for this first analysis. Additional radiotherapy was given at initial large masses or residual disease after three courses. Response rate was higher in the CHVmP-VB arm in comparison to the ProMACE-MOPP arm, 82% vs. 65% (p < 0.0005). In the ProMACE-MOPP arm, treatment had to be interrupted because of patient refusal in 7% of the patients. So far there has been no significant difference in freedom from progression at 5 years (49% vs. 47%), relapse-free survival (59% vs. 59%), or overall survival (55% vs. 49%). Patients with early response at 4 courses showed no better RFS in comparison with late responders between 4 and 8 courses. The International Index, based on age, stage, SLDH, performance status, and number of extranodal localizations showed a good prognostic significance in this series of patients.