Burkitt lymphoma is a rare form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Most of its victims are children, although sometimes it manifests itself in adults. Although essentially considered to be the same disease, there are two forms of this lymphoma, one known as the African version, officially known as endemic Burkitt’s lymphoma, and which medical studies indicate is related to the Epstein Barr virus and the the way it is. found in the rest of the world that appears to have no immediate connection to the Epstein Barr virus although in some cases the Epstein Barr virus may be present in one of the parents. The latter is known as sporadic Burkitt lymphoma. In endemic lymphoma, the jaw is most often the part of the body that is attacked, while in sporadic lymphoma it is the abdomen that is attacked most often, and very rarely the jaw or mouth area.

While this is an aggressive and life-threatening form of cancer, it also responds well to modern forms of chemotherapy. Most of its victims are cured, and the disease rarely returns or appears to cause other forms of cancer.

Medical professionals believe that their studies indicate that, in most cases, this lymphoma is related to some form of immunodeficiency, including HIV infection. It has also been shown to attack people who have undergone some type of transplant, which is why they have deliberately surprised their immune system so that their bodies accept the transplant.

One aspect of Burkitt’s lymphoma that is not associated is anorexia. It is important for a person affected by this lymphoma to maintain a healthy diet. Medical professionals suggest that instead of trying to follow a regular meal system, such as breakfast, lunch, and dinner, a person with this lymphoma eat smaller but more frequent meals. They should avoid junk food and eat foods that appeal to them. It is also recommended that they eat high-calorie foods.

Medical professionals also recommend that people with this lymphoma exercise regularly.

The symptoms of endemic lymphoma are swellings that appear in the lymph nodes, in the jaw, neck, groin, or armpits. Symptoms of sporadic lymphoma usually begin in the abdomen area.

Burkitt’s lymphoma is a formidable foe, but that doesn’t mean its victims are defeated to begin with. As in any battle, you need to fight your opponent, and Burkitt lymphoma victims often become Burkitt lymphoma victors.