Response of CHOP in diffuse large B cell lymphoma-A single center experience from Pakistan

INTRODUCTION Diffuse large B cell lymphoma is the most common subtype of non-Hodgkin's lymphomas with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, Oncovin, and prednisolone (CHOP) as its standard chemotherapy. OBJECTIVES The objectives of the study are to evaluate the response of six cycles of CHOP chemotherapy in Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) with analysis of its various prognostic factors influencing the outcome. MATERIALS & METHODS This was a prospective cross-sectional study conducted at Aga Khan University Hospital Pakistan from May 2, 2005 to December 31, 2006. We enrolled 50 patients after their informed consent. Their pretreatment laboratory and radiological investigations were carried out. Six cycles of CHOP chemotherapy were administered on 21-day intervals. Response was evaluated clinically as well as on posttreatment radiological and laboratory workup. RESULTS Among 50 patients, 41 were available for response assessment. Complete response, partial response, and treatment failure were observed in approximately 46%, 37%, and 17% of patients, respectively. An advanced stage of disease, high LDH level, and low hemoglobin levels were found to be negatively associated with the response. CONCLUSIONS CHOP is an effective treatment for DLBCL. Stage, LDH level, and hemoglobin levels can influence the response of chemotherapy.