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S. Storti et al.
to define new reference points for future therapeutic development in an otherwise highly heterogeneous and difficult-to-treat population.
In conclusion, considering our results, and the other available data discussed above, we believe that the com- bination of bendamustine and rituximab, even if not cur- ative, is a good option for the treatment of elderly frail patients with DLBCL, also when used at reduced doses and administered at 4-week intervals as in our study. Treatment of elderly frail patients remains a challenge for the clinician, and the choice of treatment should be indi-
vidualized considering all available options and through an accurate assessment of the risk-benefit ratio for each single patient. At least as important as the choice of treatment, a concerted effort should be made to adopt validated tools to assess patient fitness status before treatment start and to adapt treatment goals accordingly. In this context, we recommend the use of the simplified version of the CGA as used in this study.
Funding
This work was supported by Mundipharma Pharmaceuticals.
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