Small noncleaved cell lymphoma, also known as Burkitt lymphoma, is a highly aggressive type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) that primarily affects children and young adults. It is named after the surgeon Dennis Burkitt who initially described the disease in African children in the 1950s.
This type of lymphoma is characterized by the presence of small, round cancerous cells that lack cleaved nuclei. The cancer cells closely resemble normal B-lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell responsible for immune response. Burkitt lymphoma is closely associated with certain genetic abnormalities, specifically translocation involving the MYC oncogene, which plays a crucial role in cell growth and division.
Clinically, small noncleaved cell lymphoma typically presents as rapidly growing tumors mostly in extranodal sites, such as the abdomen, jaw, or ovaries. Patients often experience B symptoms, including unexplained weight loss, fever, and night sweats. The disease can also spread to other lymph nodes and organs, such as the bone marrow and central nervous system.
Treatment options for small noncleaved cell lymphoma depend on the extent of the disease but often involve a combination of chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. High-intensity chemotherapy regimens, such as the dose-adjusted EPOCH-R regimen, are commonly used to control the aggressive nature of this lymphoma. Due to its rapid progression, early diagnosis and prompt initiation of treatment are crucial for achieving better outcomes. With appropriate therapy, the survival rate for Burkitt lymphoma is relatively high, especially in children.
