Abstract

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) is a common malignant tumour in older people. The development of more effective treatment regimens for NHL has led to improved outcomes in younger patients. However, there is evidence that malignant tumours, including NHL, are under-treated in older patients. The variable approach to treatment of this chemo-sensitive tumour in older age, despite evidence of benefit in older patients with good functional status, and lack of sound pharmacological evidence that fit older people should always receive greatly reduced doses is a cause for concern. Older people should be included in clinical trials of treatment for NHL to define the most suitable treatment regimens in old age by comparing the outcomes of chemotherapy regimens across a range of doses derived by taking account of the changes in drug elimination with age. This article reviews and compares the advances in the treatment of NHL in older patients and suggests how the current evidence can be applied in practice.