Objective To formulate an evidence-based treatment for a patient newly diagnosed with follicular lymphoma. Methods Based on the clinical questions we raised, evidence including systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials was collected from ACP Journal Club (1991 to November 2007), The Cochrane Library (Issue 4, 2007) and PubMed. The retrieved studies were further critically appraised. Results The addition of rituximab to chemotherapy (R-chemo) was superior to chemotherapy alone in patients with follicular lymphoma. The regimen of CVP chemotherapy plus rituximab (R-CVP) was administered to the patient. After 4 courses of R-CVP, the patient had a complete response (CR). Conclusion In newly diagnosed patients with follicular lymphoma, R-chemo is an effective treatment regimen.