The GHSG HD16 randomized trial was recently reported at ASH (Abstract 925). Patients with early-stage, favorable HL (per GHSG criteria) were randomized to standard treatment (ABVD X 2 followed by 20 Gy of RT) or a PET-directed approach. If PET negative after 2 cycles (defined as Deauville 1-2),...

For early-stage, favorable HL (as defined by the German Hodgkin Study Group), the treatment of choice is 2 cycles of ABVD plus 20 Gy consolidation RT. We know of no studies that have employed 2 cycles of ABVD alone without RT. Whether more cycles of ABVD (4-6) without RT produces equal outcomes with...