Non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma: Recent observations on natural history and intensive treatment

Non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma includes lymphocytic, histiocytic, pleomorphic, and Burkitt's lymphomas. The disease is more likely to be advanced and present with extranodal involvement. The results of therapy depend on the cell type; histologic pattern, diffuse or nodular; and the type of involvement, nodal vs. extranodal. The results of intensive chemotherapy have significantly increased the proportion of complete responders and the duration of complete remissions as compared to single agents. Several new agents offer promise of other combination therapy programs.