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A case of Burkitt Lymphoma discovered by digital rectal exam
Colin Winke1, Brandon Moore1, Jacob Gelman1
1Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology West Virginia University School of Medicine Morgantown West Virginia USA.
Insights
A pediatric case of Burkitt Lymphoma (BL) presented with vague gastrointestinal symptoms. A digital rectal exam (DRE) was crucial in diagnosing this aggressive B-cell lymphoma, leading to successful treatment.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Gastroenterology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Burkitt Lymphoma (BL) is an aggressive B-cell malignancy primarily affecting children.
- Sporadic BL often presents with abdominal or pelvic involvement.
- Nonspecific gastrointestinal symptoms can obscure the diagnosis in pediatric patients.
Observation:
- An 8-year-old male presented with vomiting, weight loss, fatigue, and abdominal pain.
- Initial abdominal X-ray was unremarkable.
- A digital rectal exam (DRE) revealed a palpable rectal lesion.
Findings:
- Advanced imaging (MRI, CT) identified a left lower quadrant lesion with extension to the porta hepatis and encasing the left distal ureter.
- Histopathological analysis of a biopsy confirmed Burkitt Lymphoma.
- The patient achieved remission after completing chemotherapy.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of DRE as a fundamental diagnostic tool in evaluating pediatric patients with nonspecific gastrointestinal complaints.
- Early detection through thorough physical examination can lead to timely diagnosis and treatment of aggressive pediatric lymphomas.
- Integrating basic physical exam skills with advanced imaging is vital for comprehensive pediatric cancer diagnosis.
Abstract:
Burkitt Lymphoma (BL) is an aggressive B-cell lymphoma predominantly encountered in pediatrics. Sporadic type typically involves the abdomen and/or pelvis. We present an 8-year-old Caucasian male with vomiting, weight loss, fatigue, and abdominal pain. An abdominal X-ray was unremarkable without any acute findings. Pediatric gastroenterology was consulted and recommended esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy. A digital rectal exam (DRE) was performed, and a firm lesion was palpated. The colonoscopy was normal. Subsequent magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography scans revealed a lesion in the left lower quadrant with mass-like processes involving the porta hepatis and encasing the left distal ureter. Tissue biopsy confirmed BL. The patient completed chemotherapy and achieved remission. This case highlights DRE as a basic physical exam skill in the evaluation of patients with nonspecific gastrointestinal symptoms.
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