Stage I malignant lymphoma of Waldeyer's ring: frequent relapse after radiation therapy.

The natural history and therapeutic results of 26 patients with stage I malignant lymphoma of Waldeyer's ring (ML-WR) were analyzed retrospectively. Complete response was achieved in all 26. Relapse occurred in 9 of 21 (43%) patients treated with radiation therapy (RT) alone, while no relapse was seen in those treated with a combination chemotherapy consisting of cyclophosphamide, adriamycin, vincristine, and prednisolone (CHOP therapy). Relapse occurred within 1 year in 8 of the 9 patients. Relapse-free survival in the patients treated with RT alone was considered suboptimal.