16 New approaches to follicular lymphona

Abstract

With conventional therapy, follicular Iymphona remains incurable for most patients. An experimental approach is therefore justified.

Recognition of the association between follicular Iymphona and the (14;18) translocation and the possibility of detecting residual disease at the molecular level using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), have led to the concept of ‘molecular remission’.

Several new approaches, some of which have been reported to result in ‘molecular remission’ eg. the chimaeric antibody antti-CD20 and the combination Fludarabine, Mitoxantrone and Dexamethasone are currently being evaluated at SBH. These and other treatment options, including high dose treatment (Cyclophosphamide + total body irradiation) supported by autologous haemopoietic progenitor cells, radio-labelled anti-CD20 and the nonmyeloablative regimen comprising Fladarabine and Cyclophosphamide supported by allogeneic bone marrow transplantation will be discussed.