Burkitt lymphoma, classified as a non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, describes a specific type of cancer that affects B lymphocytes---white blood cells that produce antibodies. Two major types of Burkitt lymphoma exist: the African variety, often associated with the Epstein-Barr virus; and the American, or western civilization, variety with a less apparent cause. The American Cancer Society reported in July 2009 that Burkitt lymphoma affects men more often, accounting for approximately 90 percent of cases. Burkitt lymphoma can occur anywhere in the body containing B lymphocytes, but most commonly begins in the lymph nodes.
Swollen Lymph Nodes
The lymph nodes contain lymphocytes that function to recognize and eliminate foreign invaders such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. When the B lymphocytes become cancerous, they grow out of control causing the lymph nodes to swell. Often swollen lymph nodes, felt in the neck, armpits or groin area, are the first noticeable symptom of Burkitt lymphoma.
Although lymph nodes can become swollen for many other reasons, such as infections, colds, flu, or mononucleosis, unexplained swelling can suggest the presence of cancer. Although the lymph nodes can grow rapidly, they will not feel painful or tender.
Abdominal Swelling
The Burkitt lymphoma most common in western civilizations often causes abdominal swelling that first alerts the patient to the presence of disease. The abdominal swelling often begins in the bowel, but can also affect the ovaries, testes or other organs found within the abdominal cavity, according to the American Cancer Society. The abdominal tumor can grow large and spread to infect the spinal fluid and brain.
Swollen Jaw
Burkitt lymphoma, named after a British surgeon named Dennis Burkitt, was originally discovered in Africa in 1956. Studying these patients revealed that the changes to the B lymphocytes occurred due to infection with the Epstein-Barr virus, according to MacMillan Cancer Support. The Epstein-Barr virus causes infectious mononucleosis, which affects the lymphocytes found in lymph nodes. In those patients with compromised immune system due to chronic malaria infections, the Epstein-Barr virus changed the B lymphocytes into cancerous cells resulting in lymphoma. Therefore, the African variety of Burkitt Lymphoma usually begins in the lymph nodes of the neck. This often leads to a lymphoma tumor occurring in the jaw or other facial bones, resulting in a swollen jaw.
Numbness and Tingling
Burkitt lymphoma in the abdomen or the facial structures can spread to the central nervous system. The cancer cells can damage the nerves causing numbness and tingling that can lead to paralysis.
