Stage III nodular lymphoreticular tumors (non-Hodgkin's lymphoma): results of central lymphatic irradiation.

Since 1969, 29 previously untreated patients with Stage III nodular malignant lymphoreticular (MLT) have received total central lymphatic (TCL) irradiation. The volume irradiated included the entire abdomen, Waldeyer's ring, and preauricular nodes in addition to the usual regions encompassed by total nodal irradiation. Doses of 2000--3000 rads in three to six weeks were delivered to the nodal regions, liver, and spleen; fraction sizes ranged from 100 to 180 rads. Patients have been followed from one to ten years (median six years). The actuarial survival is 78% at five years, and the disease-free survival is 61%. There is no difference in disease-free survival of the patients with poorly differentiated lymphocytic vs. those with "histiocytic" or mixed cytology. Men and women had disease-free survivals of 82% and 43%, respectively. The long-term follow-up of these patients indicates that prolonged disease-free intervals are common after TCL irradiation, and some patients may be cured.