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Burkitt lymphoma
Definition:
Burkitt lymphoma is a lymph gland tumor classified as a non-Hodgkin's type of lymphoma. Alternative Names:
B-cell lymphoma; High-grade B-cell lymphoma; Small non-cleaved cell lymphoma Text Continues Below
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
This type of tumor was first discovered in Africa, but it has now been found in the U.S. as well. African Burkitt lymphoma is closely associated with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), the primary cause of infectious mononucleosis. The American form of Burkitt lymphoma is less closely associated with EBV. Both types of tumor are caused by defective immune cells called B lymphocytes.
Burkitt lymphoma may first be noticed as a swelling of the lymph nodes (glands) in the neck or below the jaw. These swollen lymph nodes are often painless and can grow very rapidly. The disease can also begin in other locations.
The cause of Burkitt lymphoma is not known, but in the African type of Burkitt lymphoma there is a strong association with early childhood infection by the Epstein-Barr virus.
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