Burkitt lymphoma is a fast-growing type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that primarily affects B cells, a kind of white blood cell involved in the immune response. Because it grows rapidly, its symptoms often develop quickly and can be quite pronounced. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for early detection and treatment.
One of the most common signs of Burkitt lymphoma is the presence of **rapidly enlarging tumors or masses**. These masses often appear in the lymph nodes but can also develop in other parts of the body. In many cases, the lymphoma involves the **abdomen**, leading to noticeable swelling or a palpable mass. This abdominal involvement can cause symptoms such as **pain, fullness, or discomfort** in the belly area. Sometimes, the tumor can grow large enough to cause bowel obstruction, which might result in nausea, vomiting, constipation, or difficulty passing stool.
In addition to abdominal symptoms, Burkitt lymphoma can cause **swollen lymph nodes** in areas such as the neck, underarms, or groin. These swollen nodes are usually painless but can be firm and rapidly growing. Because the lymphoma can spread to extranodal sites, symptoms may also arise depending on the location of the tumor. For example, if the lymphoma affects the jaw or facial bones, swelling or a mass in the jaw area may be noticed, which is more common in the endemic African variant of Burkitt lymphoma.
Another hallmark of Burkitt lymphoma is the presence of what are called **“B symptoms.”** These systemic symptoms include:
– **Fever** without an obvious infection
– **Night sweats** that drench clothing or bedding
– **Unexplained weight loss**, often significant and rapid
These symptoms reflect the aggressive nature of the disease and the body’s systemic response to the lymphoma.
Because Burkitt lymphoma can involve the central nervous system (CNS), some patients may experience neurological symptoms if the brain or spinal cord is affected. These symptoms can include headaches, confusion, weakness, numbness, or seizures, depending on the area involved.
Fatigue is another common symptom, often resulting from the body’s response to the cancer and sometimes from anemia caused by bone marrow involvement. If the lymphoma spreads to the bone marrow, it can interfere with normal blood cell production, leading to symptoms like easy bruising, bleeding, or increased susceptibility to infections.
In children, who are commonly affected by Burkitt lymphoma, symptoms may develop very quickly over days to weeks. Parents might notice a rapidly growing lump, abdominal distension, or signs of pain and discomfort. Because the disease progresses so fast, symptoms can escalate rapidly, requiring urgent medical attention.
In summary, the symptoms of Burkitt lymphoma include:
– Rapidly growing masses or tumors, often in lymph nodes or abdomen
– Abdominal pain, swelling, or fullness
– Swollen, painless lymph nodes in neck, armpits, or groin
– Fever, night sweats, and unexplained weight loss (B symptoms)
– Fatigue and weakness
– Neurological symptoms if CNS is involved (headaches, seizures, weakness)
– Signs of bone marrow involvement like easy bruising or infections
These symptoms reflect the aggressive and fast-growing nature of Burkitt lymphoma, making early recognition and prompt medical evaluation essential.
