Burkitt Lymphoma

About Burkitt Lymphoma in Children

Burkitt Lymphoma is an aggressive (fast-growing) type of B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma that occurs most often in children and young adults. The disease may affect the jaw, central nervous system, bowel, kidneys, ovaries, or other organs. There are three main types of Burkitt lymphoma (sporadic, endemic, and immunodeficiency related). Sporadic Burkitt lymphoma occurs throughout the world, and endemic Burkitt lymphoma occurs in Africa. Immunodeficiency-related Burkitt lymphoma is most often seen in AIDS patients. 

Burkitt lymphoma is known for having one of the fastest growth rates of any cancer treated at Texas Children’s. A child may have a small mass in the neck or abdomen that can enlarge dramatically within days, creating potentially life-threatening complications due to pressure on surrounding organs and tissues. This rapid growth can often result in kidney failure due to the inability of the kidneys to handle the breakdown of products of the growing tumor cells. 

Treatment for Burkitt Lymphoma in Children

Because Burkitt lymphoma can grow extremely rapidly, treatment begins as soon as possible after diagnosis. If the disease is strongly suspected, physicians may expedite diagnostic testing and initiate supportive care immediately, particularly for children who are critically ill. Many patients present with extensive abdominal disease, often accompanied by enlargement of the liver and spleen.

The prognosis for Burkitt Lymphoma used to be quite poor until doctors shortened and highly intensified the treatment. Now cure rates are excellent (over 85%). Kids get 6-9 months of “knock your socks off” therapy that is usually associated with many side effects that are manageable. Children with this cancer are generally in the hospital for long periods of time and may experience challenging periods throughout their care. However, with comprehensive supportive care and advances in therapy, the vast majority of children can achieve long-term remission.