Definition of Burkitt lymphoma:

Burkitt lymphoma is a very fast growing form of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

This type of tumor was first discovered in children in certain parts of Africa, but it also occurs in the United States.

The African type of Burkitt lymphoma is closely associated with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), the main cause of infectious mononucleosis. The North American form of Burkitt lymphoma is not linked to EBV.

Burkitt lymphoma may first be noticed as a swelling of the lymph nodes (glands) in the neck, groin, below the jaw, or under the arm. These swollen lymph nodes are often painless, but can grow very rapidly. In the more common types seen in the U.S., the cancer usually starts in the belly area (abdomen). The disease can also start in parts of the body, such as the ovaries, testes, brain, and spinal fluid.

The majority of Burkitt lymphoma cases are seen in males.