What Is Burkitt Lymphoma?

Burkitt lymphoma is a rare and aggressive form of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, a  type that primarily affects the body's lymphatic system.

The condition is often seen in children in the sub-Saharan Africa where it is commonly associated with Epstein-Barr Virus and malaria. However, the condition has also been observed outside of Africa where it is then associated with a compromised immune system.

The symptoms of Burkitt lymphoma may vary depending on the type, whether it is sporadic, endemic, or immunodeficiency-related. These types are classified based on the geographical location of the patient, as well as the part of the body that is affected by the disease.

Sporadic Burkitt lymphoma mostly affects the lower abdomen where the small intestine ends and the big intestine begins. It is often associated with EBV and while it does occur out of Africa, such cases are quite rare. Its symptoms include abdominal swelling, distortion of facial bones, obstruction in the intestines, night sweats, enlarged thyroid, and enlarged tonsils.

Endemic lymphoma is also often seen in Africa and is commonly associated with EBV and malaria. It often affects the facial and jaw bone, but may also affect the kidneys, breasts, small intestine, and ovaries. Its symptoms include swelling, facial bone distortion, and rapid lymph node growth. This type of tumor may grow so rapidly that it may sometimes grow twice its size in less than 24 hours.
Lastly, the immunodeficiency type of Burkitt lymphoma is linked with the use of immunosuppressive drugs such as the ones used to prevent transplant rejection and to treat HIV and AIDS. Its symptoms are similar to sporadic Burkitt lymphoma.

Burkitt Lymphoma Treatment

Burkitt lymphoma is often treated with a combination chemotherapy and radiation, but those with intestinal blocking may require surgery. In Burkitt lymphoma patients, the chemotherapy drugs are injected directly into the spinal fluid to prevent cancer from spreading to the central nervous system, and those who get this treatment often have the best outcomes.

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