Burkitt ’s lymphoma in otorhinolaryngology: case report and review

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Although rare outside Africa, Burkitt’s lymphoma cases have presented in many Otorhinolaryngological departments. It’s highly aggressive nature makes prompt diagnosis and initiation of treatment crucial for patient survival. Burkitt’s lymphomas can be divided into endemic (Africa), sporadic and immunodeficiency associated forms. The sporadic Burkitt’s lymphoma form is found in USA and Europe and presents mainly in the abdomen, medulla or lymphatic nodules and rarely involves the head and neck region. Disease is usually affected older children and young adults. The aim: to present the rare case of a four year old boy with sporadic Burkitt’s lymphoma of the head and neck localization and review of the current literature on this tumour. CASE REPORT Clinical case of 4 years old child, diagnosed with sporadic Burkitt’s lymphoma of the head and neck localization firstly manifested with otalgia and blocked nose is ascribed. Patient was admitted to the department of Otorhinolaryngology with a 2 week history of a sore throat, snoring and a 1 week history of breathing difficulty. On physical examination the right tonsil had deviated to the midline. A CT scan revealed a large mass 4.1 x 3.6 cm arising from the right tonsil and extending to the epiglottis dislocating the right submandibular gland. A biopsy taken from the free margin of the right tonsil and right paratonsillar space determine Burkitt’s lymphoma tissue. According to St.Jude’s staging system a diagnosis of Stage II Burkitt’s lymphoma of the tonsil was made. The patient was transferred to the Oncohematology department where he was started on cycles of cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, methotrexate, and intrathecal cytarabine. He has been off treatment for two years and is now in remission. Comprehensive review of the current literature of Burkitt’s lymphoma is presented. [...].