Novel Case Report of a Rare Symptomatic Orofacial Burkitt's Lymphoma

Burkitt lymphoma is a very fast-growing non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) characterized by rapid tumor progression and increased lymphocyte proliferation. It often involves the jaw and facial bones. The current case report represented a 37-year-old male patient with Burkitt's lymphoma who sought dental care for persistent and dull pain and paresthesia on the left side of his mandible extending to the periauricular region. The initial diagnosis suggested a dental origin, leading to the lower left third molar (LL8) extraction. Despite this, the patient continued to experience worsening pain, which radiated to the lower extremities, accompanied by fatigue and weakness. The patient was referred to an oral and maxillofacial medicine specialist, where ultrasonography (US) revealed hypoechoic masses. A subsequent biopsy of a submandibular mass confirmed the diagnosis of Burkitt's lymphoma. The patient was referred to an oncologist and underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy. After 3 years of follow-up, the patient is in remission. This unique case presentation related to systemic involvement as well as generalized bone pain (suggesting systemic involvement or more advanced disease) alone underscores the importance of a thorough diagnostic approach when facing unusual or persistent symptoms. It can also significantly impact future patient care by highlighting the need for a comprehensive evaluation and the importance of maintaining a high level of suspicion, particularly in cases where the initial diagnosis does not fully explain the patient's symptoms.