Dr Tycel Phillips discusses the rationale of an “active surveillance” paradigm following initial diagnosis of follicular lymphoma (FL), as well as how to best select patients in whom this approach could be optimally applied, especially considering FL is currently still an incurable disease. Dr Andrew Zelenetz commented on the multifactorial nature of the decision to implement active surveillance, especially in patients who have responded well overall to a first-line regimen but are at risk for relapse (which is a universally expected event, given adequate time). Dr Zelenetz mentioned that clinical acumen and experience, along with consensus criteria (GELF), provide means by which to decide about the timing and choice of agent/regimen for further treatment. Ms Peg Rummel acknowledged the role of nurses and nurse navigators in having patients understand, accept, and embrace active surveillance; educating around further changes in the plan of care and reinforcing that plan; and aiming for optimal outcomes and quality of life in patients with relapsed or refractory FL.
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