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Burkitt's Lymphoma

Burkitt's lymphoma is a form of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma that usually affects people ages 12 to 30. This cancer, particularly African Burkitt lymphoma, is associated with early childhood infection by the Epstein-Barr virus, which is the primary cause of mononucleosis (mono).

Burkitt's lymphoma may first be noticed from swelling in lymph nodes in the neck or below the jaw. This painless swelling may grow rapidly and may appear in other areas of the body. People with Burkitt's lymphoma may have fast-growing tumors in the abdomen. Burkitt's lymphoma may spread to the bone marrow and central nervous system.

Burkitt's lymphoma often is cured by treatment with anticancer medicine (chemotherapy).

Last Revised: July 28, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & W. David Colby IV, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease

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