Non-cross-resistant combinations in stage IV non-Hodgkin's lymphomas.

Two triple-drug combinations (cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and prednisone [CVP] and adriamycin, bleomycin, and prednisone [ABP]) were randomly tested in 57 consecutive patients with pathologic stage IV non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. No statistical difference was observed in the incidence of complete remission (CR) (48% vs 50%), median duration of CR (10.5 vs 20.5 months), and survival. CR correlated positively with survival. After crossover for progression or relapse, no cross resistance was detected between the two combinations (CR plus PR = 40% for CVP and 50% for ABP). In a subsequent prospective study CVP and ABP were sequentially alternated in an attempt to improve the incidence and duration of CR. In the first 32 evaluable patients CR was produced in 50%. The findings are still preliminary.