Burkitt Lymphoma: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
The Burkitt lymphoma is a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that affects the lymphatic system, which works to fight infection and disease. It is named after Dr. Denis Burkitt, who described it as first in 1958.
Causes of Burkitt Lymphoma
The exact cause of burkitt lymphoma is not known, but some factors may increase the risk of developing it. These include:
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Infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which causes mononucleosis or glandular fever. It is very common and most people are infected at some point in their lives. EBV may, however, trigger abnormal growth in B cells, a type of white blood cell that can develop cancerous cells in some cases.
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Living in or traveling to malaria-endemic areas, such as sub-Saharan Africa. Malaria affects the red blood cells and weakens the immune system, making burkitt lymphoma more likely to occur.
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Having a weakened immune system due to HIV/AIDS, organ transplants, chemotherapy, or other conditions. A weakened immune system may be unable to control the growth of abnormal B cells.
Symptoms of Burkitt Lymphoma
Burkitt lymphoma can grow very fast and spread to other parts of the body. The most common symptoms are:
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Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpit, groin, or abdomen. The lymph nodes may feel hard, painless, or tender.
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Fever, night sweats, weight loss, and fatigue. These are general signs of infection or inflammation in the body.
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Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. These may be caused by the tumor pressing on the organs in the abdomen, such as the liver, spleen, or intestines.
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Facial swelling or jaw pain. These may be caused by the tumor affecting the bones or nerves in the face or head.
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Vision problems, headaches, or seizures. These may be caused by the tumor spreading to the brain or spinal cord.
Diagnosis of Burkitt Lymphoma
To diagnose burkitt lymphoma, the doctor may perform the following tests:
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Physical exam. The doctor will check for swollen lymph nodes and other signs of burkitt lymphoma.
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Blood tests. The doctor will take a sample of blood and check for abnormal levels of white blood cells, red blood cells, platelets, and other substances.
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Biopsy. The doctor will take a small piece of tissue from the affected lymph node or organ and examine it under a microscope. This is the only way to confirm the diagnosis of burkitt lymphoma.
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Imaging tests. The doctor may use X-rays, ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, or PET scan to see the size and location of the tumor and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.
Treatment of Burkitt Lymphoma
In the treatment of burkitt lymphoma, drugs are used to kill cancer cells. They are usually given in high doses and in several cycles, with breaks in between. Chemotherapy can be administered intravenously or orally.
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to damage the DNA of cancer cells, stopping them from growing and shrinking the tumor.
In rare cases, surgery may be done to remove the tumor or relieve the symptoms. Surgery is usually not a curative option, but it may help improve the quality of life of the patient.
Prevention of Burkitt Lymphoma
There is no sure way to prevent burkitt lymphoma, but some steps may help reduce the risk. These include:
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Avoiding or treating infections with EBV or malaria. This may involve getting vaccinated, taking antiviral or antimalarial drugs, or practicing good hygiene and mosquito protection.
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Strengthening the immune system. This may involve eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and managing stress.
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Seeking medical attention if symptoms occur. Early diagnosis and treatment may improve the chances of survival and recovery.
This cancer affects the lymphatic system and is rare but aggressive. Children and young adults are more likely to develop Burkitt lymphoma, especially in regions where EBV and malaria are prevalent. Based on the location and stage of the tumor, symptoms may vary. The diagnosis is made based on a biopsy and imaging tests. In addition to chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery are occasionally used in treatment. Prognosis depends on several factors, including the patient's age, general health, and response to treatment.
