Mitoxantrone, Etoposide and Prednisolone—a Novel Combination in The Treatment of Relapsed and Refractory Lymphoma

A new combination chemotherapy comprising mitoxantrone 10 mg/m2 iv on day 1, etoposide 100 mg/m2 iv/po days 1 to 3 and prednisolone 25 mg/m2 days 1 to 10 was assessed in the treatment of 18 patients with relapsed or refractory Hodgkin's disease or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. An overall response rate of 74% was achieved. Complete remission occurred in 41% and partial remission in a further 33% of patients. Toxic effects were limited and the regime suitable for out-patient administration. Treatment delays were few and due principally to mild haematological toxicity.