Chemotherapy in Hodgkin's disease.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy of primary chemotherapy in patients with clinically staged Hodgkin's disease.

DESIGN

Non randomized study.

SETTING

Pediatric Oncology Division of Regional Cancer Center.

SUBJECTS

Twenty nine children with Hodgkin's disease.

INTERVENTIONS

Chemotherapy was given to 21 patients whose parents agreed for the same. Sixteen children received COPP regimen and 5 received MOPP regimen.

RESULTS

Complete remission was achieved in 19 patients. The relapse free survival and overall survival in these patients were 76% and 86%, respectively at 5 years. There was no death related to chemotherapy toxicity.

CONCLUSION

Combination chemotherapy is an effective modality of treatment for children with Hodgkin's disease.