Symptoms & Signs
Burkitt lymphoma may first be noticed as a swelling of the lymph nodes (glands) in the neck, groin, below the jaw, or under the arm. These swollen lymph nodes are often painless, but can grow very rapidly.
In the more common types seen in the United States, the cancer usually starts in the belly area (abdomen). The disease can also start in the ovaries, testes, brain, and spinal fluid.
Symptoms include:
- Nodes that grow together to form a lump
- Nontender nodes
- Rapid growth of the lymph nodes
- Unexplained swollen lymph nodes
Diagnosis & Tests
- Bone marrow biopsy
- Chest x-ray
- CT scan of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis
- Examination of the spinal fluid
- Lymph node biopsy
- PET or gallium scan
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Burkitt lymphoma : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
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Burkitt lymphoma : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests]
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Burkitt lymphoma : Treatment
Review Date : 7/29/2009
Reviewed By : Linda Vorvick, MD, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, Washington ; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
