Low-grade non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in Zimbabwe: clinical features and stage.

Fifteen patients with low-grade non-Hodgkin's lymphoma were seen in Harare over a 3-year period, and this group constituted approximately 17% of all non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. All but one were of type A (Working Formulation), i.e. small lymphocytic. This low proportion of lesser grades of malignancy and virtual absence of follicular histology was similar to findings in other parts of Africa. The clinical features, however, resembled those reported worldwide with the sex ratio equal, older patients affected, and most patients (87%) having advanced stage disease, often with extranodal spread.