Results with CCNU in resistant Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

72 patients with advanced malignant lymphoma resistant to standard chemotherapy were treated with 1-(2-chloroethyl)-3-cyclohexyl-l-nitrosourea (CCNU) at 130 mg/m2 orally every six weeks. Objective responses were noted in 13 of 39 evaluable patients with Hodgkin's disease, three of 15 patients with lymphocytic lymphoma, and one of seven patients with histiocytic lymphoma. Responses lasted one to 22 months (median: four months) and occurred in patients whose disease was resistant to alkylating agents, vinblastine, vincristine, corticosteroids, procarbazine, and bleomycin. Leukopenia and thrombocytopenia were frequent toxic effects of therapy.