P-COMM-B induction chemotherapy in intermediate and high grade non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

57 patients with newly diagnosed intermediate or high grade non-Hodgkin's lymphoma with stage II to IV disease were treated with P-COMM-B (prednisolone, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, mitozantrone, methotrexate and bleomycin). 46% patients achieved a complete remission and 26% achieved a partial remission. Projected disease-free survival in complete remission at 5 years is 56% and projected overall survival at 5 years is 37%. Neutropenia and proximal myopathy were the commonest severe toxicities encountered and two deaths were clearly related to treatment (3.5%). P-COMM-B is effective first-line chemotherapy in intermediate and high grade non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. The efficacy and toxicity of P-COMM-B appear to be comparable to those of the best contemporary regimen, CHOP.