AbstractThe results of individual studies examining the role of p53 as a predictive and prognostic factor in lymphoid malignancies have varied considerably. In order to summarize the available data on the overexpression or mutation of p53 in Hodgkins and non-Hodgkins lymphoma, a systematic literature review was performed. Twenty-four studies met the eligibility criteria. With respect to non-Hodgkins lymphoma, most studies seem to support the hypothesis that patients whose tumors contain wild-type p53 respond better to treatment and have increased survival rates. If true, the implication may be that patients with p53 mutated tumors could be selected for non-standard treatment. With respect to Hodgkins lymphoma, comparable associations were rarely reported. However, techniques for assessing the inactivation of p53 varied widely. Furthermore, in most instances, the study design and/or statistical methods did not allow sufficient analyses of the influence of confounding factors such as histologic type, stage, first-line and salvage treatment, etc. Therefore, it remains unclear whether the apparent influence of p53 status on outcome in non-Hodgkins lymphoma is independent of established parameters such as stage, performance status, etc. Further studies involving large numbers of specimens derived from patients treated in clinical trials with identical regimens, follow-up and salvage strategies are needed. These studies should also be stratified according to histologic subtypes.