Abstract

"Besides traditional cytostatic drugs the introduction of monoclonal antibodies has substantially influenced current treatment concepts of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL). Rituximab, a monoclonal anti-CD20 chimeric antibody, now has been widely evaluated in the various B-cell lymphatic neoplasms. The ai of the study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy and toxic effects of Mabthera (rituximab) in combination with the CHOP (R-CHOP) regimen for treating non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. A total of 60 patients with CD20 positive non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma were compared into the R-CHOP and CHOP groups. They received the regimens of Mabthera in combination with CHOP or single CHOP therapy respectively. Curative effect and survival rate in both groups was evaluated following 6-8 cycles of chemotherapy. The overall survival rate in the R-CHOP group was 90% and in to control group was 54% with a significant difference between them (p<0.01) The addition of rituximab to the CHOP regimen increases the complete response rate and prolongs event-free and overall survival in patients in non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, without a clinically significant increase in toxicity. It is highly recommended as the treatment of choice. "

Authors and Affiliations