Burkitt's lymphoma

(Dennis Burkitt, born 1911, English surgeon), a stem cell lymphoma occurring predominantly in children, especially in tropical Africa. For a general description, see Burkitts lymphoma.

In Burkitt's lymphoma, the facial bones, particularly the maxilla, can be involved to the point of producing facial disfigurement. In addition, patients may develop a soft tissue mass that extends into the buccal cavity or maxillary antrum. Pelvic bones and tubular bones may also be involved, although less frequently. In these sites, osteolytic foci penetrate the cortex and lead to periostitis, with a resulting soft tissue mass.

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