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Burkitt Lymphoma


About this topic


Burkitt lymphoma, or BL, is a kind of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Lymphoma is a type of cancer and is broken down into Hodgkin or non-Hodgkin types, based on the kind of white blood cells involved. Lymphoma starts in the lymphatic system. This system includes the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus gland, and bone marrow. Your body has white blood cells that protect you from infection and disease. When you have lymphoma, these cells grow out of control or live longer than normal. ‚  

What are the causes?


Doctors do not know what causes BL. Normally, your white blood cells die and are replaced with new ones. With BL, your white blood cells dont die, but continue to grow and divide. These cells build up in the lymph nodes causing them to swell. ‚  

What can make this more likely to happen?


BL is more likely to happen in males. It sometimes goes along with the Epstein " “Barr virus. You may be at a higher risk for this illness if you have HIV or AIDS. Certain kinds of BL are also more common in the United Kingdom, Africa, and New Guinea. ‚  

What are the main signs?


  • Swollen area that may grow quickly
    • May be in the lymph nodes in the neck, groin, or armpit
    • May be in the jaw or belly
  • Breathing problems, wheezing, or coughing
  • Trouble swallowing, loss of appetite, weight loss
  • Fever, night sweats
  • Pain in your bones or chest
  • Feeling tired
  • Rashes

How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?


The doctor will take your history and do an exam. The doctor may order: ‚  
  • Lab tests
  • X-rays
  • CT scan
  • Biopsy of the swollen area
  • PET scan
  • Bone marrow biopsy

How does the doctor treat this health problem?


Your treatment will be based on the type of cancer cells that are found. Treatment will also be based on the size and if the tumor has spread. Doctors treat lymphoma with drugs like chemo or immunotherapy. In some cases, surgery or a bone marrow or stem cell transplant may be needed. Doctors may also treat BL with radiation therapy. ‚  

What drugs may be needed?


The doctor may order drugs to: ‚  
  • Treat the cancer
  • Help with pain
  • Help with side effects from chemo
  • Prevent an upset stomach or throwing up
  • Give you more energy if red blood cell counts are low
  • Prevent infection
  • Help enhance your immune system

Will surgery be needed?


You may need surgery to place a special kind of IV to have your chemo treatments. ‚  

Helpful tips


Join a support group. Support can help you understand and deal with your illness. ‚  

Where can I learn more?


American Cancer Society ‚  
http://www.cancer.org/cancer/non-hodgkinlymphomainchildren/detailedguide/non-hodgkin-lymphoma-in-children-non-hodgkin-lymphomain-children ‚  
Leukemia and Lymphoma Society ‚  
http://www.lls.org/lymphoma/non-hodgkin-lymphoma ‚  
National Cancer Institute ‚  
http://www.cancer.gov/types/lymphoma/patient/child-nhl-treatment-pdq#section/all ‚  

Last Reviewed Date


2015-08-05 ‚  

List_set bdysylist


  • Hematologic

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care provider 's advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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