Abdominal Burkitt lymphoma mimicking the ovarian cancer. Case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Summary Primary Burkitt lymphoma is a lymphoblastic B-cell malignant tumor with very aggressive course. Its abdominal form involving internal genital organs is very rare. Case: We report the case of 27-year-old woman treated for abdominal Burkitt lymphoma. The patient presented bilateral ovarian tumors with ascites, pain and elevated CA 125 over 900 IU/ml. During laparotomy an advanced neoplasmatic disease involving internal genital organs has been diagnosed. Bilateral salphingo-oophorectomy and omentectomy have been performed. Additionally, the neoplasmatic tumor from ileo-coecal region has been ressected in order to prevent ileus. Pathologic examination has revealed an abdominal Burkitt lymphoma. After surgery, polychemotherapy has been administered (COP followed by CODOX-M+IVAC). The patient, 36 months after surgical treatment, remains under the control of our Department. No signs of recurrence have been detected so far. Conclusions: The presence of primary abdominal Burkitt lymphoma may include clinical and laboratory findings suggesting the presence of ovarian cancer. Chemotherapy appears to be an essential therapeutic management for all forms of Burkitt lymphoma. Clinically advanced Burkitt lymphoma may be successfully managed with chemotherapy.