Outcome of Hodgkin's disease in elderly patients

The outcome of Hodgkin's disease, in elderly patients is a subject of controversy. We analysed retrospectively 31 cases of patients older than 60 years that received treatment according to current protocols. We observed a CR rate of 87 per cent and survival of 58 per cent with a median follow-up of 58 months which is clearly better than most reported results in this age group. Although our population consists of only those entered on protocols it suggests that patients whose condition is adequate enough to allow them to receive standard therapy with a curative intent, have a similar outcome to that seen in younger patients.