PRIOR CONCURRENT THERAPY: Biologic: No prior biologic therapy for lymphoma Chemotherapy: No prior cytotoxic therapy for lymphoma Endocrine: No prior steroids for lymphoma At least 2 months since prior nonphysiologic doses of prednisone of greater than 20 mg or equivalent No concurrent maintenance steroids or greater than 5 mg of daily prednisone or equivalent Radiotherapy: No prior radiotherapy for lymphoma Surgery: Not specified