Burkitt lymphoma

Burkitt’s lymphoma is a rare form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Most of its victims are children, although occasionally it occurs in adults. Although essentially they are considered to be the same disease, there are two forms of this Lymphoma, one known as the African version, officially known as Endemic Burkitt’s Lymphoma and which medical studies indicate is related to the Epstein Barr Virus and the form that is found in the rest of the world that does not seem to have an immediate connection to the Epstein Barr virus although in some cases the Epstein Barr virus may be present in one of the parents. The latter is known as sporadic Burkitt lymphoma. In endemic lymphoma, the jaw is usually the part of the body that is attacked, while in sporadic lymphoma it is more often the abdomen that is attacked and very rarely the jaw or mouth area.

Although this is an aggressive and life-threatening form of cancer, it also responds well to modern forms of chemotherapy. Most of its victims are cured, and the disease rarely returns or seems to cause other forms of cancer.

Medical professionals believe that their studies indicate that, in most cases, lymphoma is related to some form of immunodeficiency, including HIV infection. It has also been shown to attack people who have undergone some type of transplant, whereby they have deliberately shocked their immune systems so that their bodies will accept the transplant.

An aspect of Burkitt’s lymphoma that tends not to be associated is anorexia. It is important for a person affected by this lymphoma to maintain a healthy diet. Medical professionals suggest that instead of trying to stick to a regular set of meals, such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner, a person with this lymphoma eats smaller but more frequent meals. They should avoid junk food and eat foods that appeal to them. It is also recommended that they consume high-calorie foods.

Medical professionals also recommend that people with this lymphoma exercise regularly.

The symptoms of endemic lymphoma are swellings that appear in the lymph nodes, in the jaw, neck, groin or armpits. Symptoms of sporadic lymphoma usually start in the abdominal area.

Burkitt’s lymphoma is a formidable foe, but that doesn’t mean its victims are defeated to begin with. As in any battle, you need to fight your opponent, and often Burkitt’s lymphoma victims become Burkitt’s lymphoma victors.