The malignant lymphomas in Benin City, Nigeria.

Forty-seven cases of adult non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) and Hodgkin's disease (HD) seen at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital between 1975 and 1987 have been analysed with respect to the presenting features, management and survival. There is a preponderance of males over females (4.4:1 for NHL and 9:1 for HD). NHL was commonly diagnosed in the 41-50 year age group and HD in the 21-30 year age bracket. Lymphadenopathy was observed in all patients at the time of presentation, mainly generalized (48.1%) in NHL and cervical (65%) in HD. The poorly differentiated lymphocytic (29.6%) and undifferentiated (22.2%) types of NHL and the mixed cellularity type (40%) of HD are the most frequent histopathological types. The COP regime was the most frequently used therapeutic regimen. The results of treatment were poor mainly because of late presentation, inadequate supply of drugs, the high default rate and relative lack of radiotherapeutic facilities.