DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS: Histologically proven low-grade non-Hodgkin's lymphoma of the following subtypes: Follicular, predominantly small cleaved cell Follicular mixed (small cleaved and large cell) Previously treated on Protocol CLB 8691 or previously untreated Previously untreated patients with Stage IV disease (Ann Arbor classification) must meet the following conditions: Documented bone marrow involvement Lymph node biopsy must not show higher grade lymphoma At least 1 additional risk factor as follows: At least 2 extranodal sites Nodes or nodal group at least 5 cm Male Previously treated patients must have progressed or relapsed on Protocol CLB-8691 Recurrence should be documented by biopsy if possible Bidimensionally measurable disease by physical exam, radiograph, CT, or MRI (sonography and barium studies alone not acceptable) Measurable liver disease defined as: Mass greater than 3.5 cm on CT, MRI, or ultrasound OR Histologically documented lymphomatous hepatomegaly more than 5 cm below the costal margin The following disease manifestations are not considered measurable: Ascites or pleural effusion Bony disease (lytic lesions on x-ray should be documented and followed) CNS lesions Bone marrow involvement No lymphomatous involvement (including CNS lymphoma) requiring immediate radiotherapy A new classification scheme for adult non-Hodgkin's lymphoma has been adopted by PDQ. The terminology of "indolent" or "aggressive" lymphoma will replace the former terminology of "low", "intermediate", or "high" grade lymphoma. However, this protocol uses the former terminology.