Burkitt's lymphoma
Burkitt's lymphoma Causes
The exact cause of this medical condition is still unknown and has been found to be quite common in Africa with evidences that link it to the Epstein-Barr virus. Researchers are also looking into the possibility of chromosomal defects and inheritance patterns..
Burkitt's lymphoma Definition
Burkitt's lymphoma is categorized as a highly uncommon type of a Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma (NHL). This medical condition commonly affects children than in adults and is known to be a very aggressive kind of B-cell lymphoma that typically involves body parts other than the lymph nodes. However, in spite of its rapid-growing nature, Burkitt's lymphoma is usually very curable with the availability of modern intensive therapies.
Burkitt's lymphoma Diagnosis
A medical diagnosis is usually made by removing the enlarged lymph node, or part of it, and conducting a biopsy of the sample. Other tissue samples can also be taken from other parts. Additional tests include x-rays, blood tests, lumbar punctures, scans, and bone marrow samples.
Burkitt's lymphoma Symptoms and Signs
Among the most common symptoms associated with Burkitt;s lymphoma include abdominal swelling, grandular tissue growth in the tonsil, breast or thyroid, damage to nerves causing paralysis and weakness, fatigue and loss of appetite.
Burkitt's lymphoma Treatment
Since Burkitt's lymphoma is type of a highly aggressive tumor and equally fatal, immediate attention is advised. Treatments involve aggressive forms of chemotherapy. According to statistics, about 80% of patients are cured with this treatment approach