Burkitt’s lymphoma

The first description of Burkitt lymphoma was probably that of Albert Cook, the first missionary doctor in Uganda.

Burkitt’s lymphoma is the third type of germinal center cell-derived lymphoma, Burkitt’s lymphoma was initially defined by its morphological features; however, morphology is altered by the effects of fixation and interobserver agreement can be poor.

The development of this disease is linked to exposure to a specific virus and is some instances to a heritable or familial predisposition that itself is associated with a relatively constant chromosome abnormality.

Burkitt’s lymphoma is a rare, aggressive form of NHL (Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma) and is thought to be most rapidly growing cancer known.

One of the factors that appear to contribute to the development of Burkitt’s lymphoma, at least in its endemic form is infection with EBV.

The Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), also called human herpesvirus 4 (HHV-4), is a virus of the herpes family, and is one of the most common viruses in humans.

There are three forms of the disease:
*An endemic form found in Africa
*A more sporadic form seen in North America and Europe
*A form that is associated with immunodeficiency
Burkitt’s lymphoma