Lymphomas of the testis-results of treatment 1960-77

Fifty-one patients with malignant lymphoma presenting in the testis are reported. The tumours were all diffuse non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Eight patients had bilateral involvement. Fifty-three per cent of patients had evidence of spread beyond the testis at presentation and 75% at some time. The actuarial survival for all patients was 20% and for patients with disease apparently confined to the testis 40%. There was a survival advantage for patients with right sided tumours and lymphocytic histology. Chemotherapy using the VAP regime followed by radiotherapy to sites of bulky disease is recommended for patients with evidence of spread at presentation. For patients with disease apparently confined to the testis it is suggested that consideration should be given to adjuvant chemotherapy following radiotherapy to the abdominal nodes and scrotum.