]> 2026-07-31T09:41:19+00:00 WBR0248 0 en ''L-MYC'' The ''L-MYC'' oncogene is associated with lung cancers. ''RET'' ''N-MYC'' ''HER2'' ''C-MYC'' Burkitt's lymphoma is an aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma caused by a translocation that results in the expression of the ''C-MYC'' oncogene, a transcription factor that has a role in the regulation of cell cycle. The tumor has been associated with the translocation t(8;14) among the majority of cases (85%) and translocations t(2;8) or t(8;22) in fewer than 20% of cases. Burkitt's lymphoma is characterized by a high proliferative potential and rapid turnover with a doubling time that is as fast as 24-48 hours. It is considered to be one of the fastest growing tumors. Burkitt's lymphoma is also the first malignancy to be associated with a virus, where EBV has been observed to have a direct causative role in the development of the tumor by immortalising B-cells. Burkitt's lymphoma is common among children. It is classified into 3 types based on the geographical distribution, its association with infectious agents, and clinical presentation: The sporadic type is the most common type in USA and Europe and is rarely associated with EBV. It usually manifests with an abdominal or pelvic tumor; and patients typically complain of vague abdominal pain, nausea, and early satiety. The endemic type is common in regions with malaria endemicity (e.g. central Africa) and has been associated with EBV in almost all cases. Manifestations of endemic-type Burkitt's lymphoma usually include jaw or periorbital swelling, especially among children between the age 3 to 7 years. Finally, the immunodeficiency-type is common among patients with early HIV infection (CD4 > 200 cells/mm³). In this vignette, the patient is most likely diagnosed with endemic-type Burkitt's lymphoma given his age, his recent immigration from Africa, and the location of his tumor involving the jaw. On histopathological analysis, Burkitt's lymphoma appears as monomorphic, medium-sized cells that have a high rate of turnover. A "starry sky" appearance is observed due to the presence of apoptotic tumor cells within tingible-body-laden macrophages on microscopy. Tumor cells are usually B-cells that express CD10, CD20, and CD79a. EBV RNA may also be expressed and identified on fluorescence in-situ hybridisation (FISH). The prognosis of Burkitt's lymphoma is mainly based on the stage of the tumor at diagnosis. Treatment of localized disease consists of surgical resection and chemotherapy, whereas more advanced cases require chemotherapy only.<br/> '''Educational Objective:''' Burkitt's lymphoma is an aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma caused by a translocation that results in the expression of the ''C-MYC'' oncogene, a transcription factor that has a role in the regulation of cell cycle.<br/> '''References:''' Molyneux EM, Rochford R, Griffin B, et al. Burkitt's lymphoma. Lancet. 2012; 379:1234-44.<br> First Aid 2014 page 232 Pathology E Hematology 2020-10-27T23:54:24Z 2459150.4961111 WBR0248