Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 17, 2026
Murine Model of Leukemia Relapse to Induction Chemotherapy for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Published on: October 17, 2025
Diagnostic challenge of Burkitt's lymphoma at early age
M H Nor Fauziah1, M Z Faizah2, C K Loh3
1Hospital Canselor Tunku Muhriz, Department of Radiology, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. norfauziahfaizal@gmail.com.
Insights
Diagnosing Burkitt's lymphoma (BL) in children can be challenging. Early detection through imaging like ultrasound and CT scans is crucial for effective treatment and improved survival rates in pediatric oncology.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Medical Imaging
- Abdominal Diseases
Background:
- Burkitt's lymphoma (BL) is an aggressive B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
- Pediatric abdominal masses present diagnostic challenges, often mimicking infectious or inflammatory conditions.
Observation:
- A 4-year-old boy presented with subacute abdominal distension.
- Imaging revealed solid liver masses and intraperitoneal lesions, initially suggesting tuberculosis or liver abscess.
Findings:
- Liver biopsy and peritoneal fluid analysis confirmed Burkitt's lymphoma (BL).
- Ultrasound and CT scans demonstrated characteristic features of intraabdominal BL.
Implications:
- Highlights the diagnostic difficulties of BL in young children.
- Emphasizes the critical role of early diagnosis and prompt treatment for favorable outcomes in aggressive pediatric tumors.
Abstract:
A four-year-old Ibanese boy presented with subacute abdominal distension for two months duration. Ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) scan showed solid liver masses as well as bowel and intraperitoneal lesions. Initial diagnosis of intraperitoneal inflammatory process as in tuberculosis with non-liquefied liver abscess with differential diagnosis of neoplastic process was made. Liver biopsy and peritoneal fluid analysis revealed Burkitt's lymphoma (BL). We aim to highlight the diagnostic challenge of BL in this young age group emphasizing on the ultrasound and CT features of intraabdominal BL. We would also want to stress the importance of early diagnosis of BL as it is known to be the most aggressive tumour within 24 hours yet to have good survival if early diagnosis was made.
