Burkitt lymphoma is a rare, fast-growing cancer. It typically affects children and, less frequently, young adults. Burkitt lymphoma symptoms come on suddenly and quickly get worse. Healthcare providers often treat Burkitt lymphoma with intensive chemotherapy. Most of the time, this cancer goes into long-term remission after treatment.
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Burkitt lymphoma is a rare, fast-growing cancer of B cells — a type of white blood cell. It’s a form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that most often affects children and young adults. Other names for this condition include Burkitt’s disease, Burkitt’s lymphoma and Burkitt’s tumor.
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It typically starts in lymph nodes in your abdomen or pelvis, but it can also spread to your:
Because it grows so fast, Burkitt lymphoma can be life-threatening. But with quick treatment, many people go into long-term remission. That means symptoms go away and stay away.
There are three types:
In the U.S., sporadic Burkitt lymphoma affects about 4 in 1 million children under 16. It makes up 1% to 2% of adult lymphomas.
Children are more likely to get it, usually between the ages of 3 and 12.
Symptoms can appear suddenly and include:
These symptoms can look like common illnesses, but if they get worse, see a healthcare provider. Burkitt tumors can double in size within days.
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Experts don’t know exactly what causes Burkitt lymphoma. It’s linked to changes (variations) in a gene called MYC, which helps control cell growth. A type of genetic glitch, called translocation, can cause this gene to become overactive.
In the U.S., some people who have Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) also have Burkitt lymphoma. But not everyone who has EBV develops Burkitt lymphoma.
Possible complications include:
Tell your provider if your symptoms become hard to manage.
To diagnose Burkitt lymphoma, your provider may start with a lymph node biopsy. Other tests may include:
Healthcare providers use stages to show how far the cancer has spread:
Because Burkitt lymphoma grows fast, treatment needs to start quickly. Options include:
Your provider will schedule regular follow-ups to monitor your health. These appointments may include blood tests and CT scans.
Call your provider if you or your child has:
If you or your child receives a Burkitt lymphoma diagnosis, here are some questions you might want to ask:
Burkitt lymphoma is curable in many cases. It responds well to treatment, especially in kids and teens. Children tend to handle chemotherapy better than adults, who may have other health issues that can make treatment harder.
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While Burkitt lymphoma is aggressive, many people respond well to treatment. Here’s what the survival rates typically look like:
These are only averages. Your outcome may be different, so talk to your provider for more personal details.
Treatment can be tough, but there are ways to cope:
Being told you or your child has Burkitt lymphoma can feel overwhelming. You may have a lot of questions and fears. But you’re not alone.
This cancer is aggressive, but treatment can be very effective. Your care team will move fast to start treatment and support your recovery every step of the way.
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Cleveland Clinic Children’s expert pediatric oncology providers treat rare childhood cancers, like Burkitt lymphoma, with personalized care and support.
Last reviewed on 05/27/2025.
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