Burkitt's lymphoma

Burkitt's lymphoma is a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that is categorized as a high-grade B-cell lymphoma. It is named after Denis Parsons Burkitt, a British surgeon who first identified the disease in African children in 1958.

Epidemiology

Burkitt's lymphoma is most common in children and young adults, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where it is associated with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infection and malaria. It is less common in other parts of the world, but can still occur, often in association with HIV infection.

Pathogenesis

The hallmark of Burkitt's lymphoma is a translocation involving the MYC gene, which leads to its overexpression. This results in uncontrolled cell division, leading to the rapid growth of the tumor. The exact mechanism by which EBV and malaria contribute to the development of Burkitt's lymphoma is not fully understood, but it is thought that they may impair the immune system's ability to control MYC expression.

Clinical features

Patients with Burkitt's lymphoma typically present with rapidly growing tumors, most commonly in the abdomen, jaw, or central nervous system. Other symptoms can include fever, night sweats, and weight loss.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Burkitt's lymphoma is based on biopsy of the tumor, which shows a characteristic "starry sky" appearance under the microscope. Further testing, such as fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), can be used to confirm the presence of the MYC translocation.

Treatment

Treatment for Burkitt's lymphoma typically involves intensive chemotherapy, often in combination with monoclonal antibody therapy. Despite the aggressive nature of the disease, with appropriate treatment, cure rates can be high.

Prognosis

The prognosis for Burkitt's lymphoma varies depending on a number of factors, including the stage of the disease at diagnosis, the patient's overall health, and the response to treatment. However, with modern treatment regimens, the majority of patients can achieve long-term remission.

See also

• Lymphoma
• Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
• B-cell lymphoma
• Epstein-Barr virus
• Malaria

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