Objective Methods of evidence-based medicine were used to make an individualized treatment plan concerning newly diagnosed diffuse large-B-cell lymphoma in elderly patients. Methods After clinical problems were put forward, evidence was collected from MEDLINE (Jan. 1990 to Dec. 2004) and http://sumsearch.uthscsa.edu/searchform4.htm. Subject words were: NHL; aggressive non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma; diffuse large-B-cell lymphoma; chemotherapy; CHOP; rituximab; RCT; economic evaluation; older patient. Results A total of 11 randomized controlled trials and 8 systematic reviews about chemotherapy regimen, and 1 systematic review about economic evaluation were identified. A rational treatment plan was made upon a critical evaluation of the data. After 5 months follow-up, the plan was proved optimal. Conclusions The treatment effectiveness in newly diagnosed diffuse large-B-cell lymphoma in the elderly has been improved by an individual treatment plan according to evidence-based methods.
