An Atypical Presentation of Burkitt Lymphoma Presenting As Large Intra-abdominal Masses Compressing Multiple Organs With Peri-Pericardial Involvement in an HIV Patient: A Case Report and Literature Review

TL;DR

This case report describes an unusual presentation of Burkitt lymphoma in an HIV-positive patient with large abdominal masses and peri-pericardial involvement.

Contribution

The novelty lies in the atypical presentation of Burkitt lymphoma in an HIV patient with extensive compressive symptoms.

Findings

The patient presented with large intra-abdominal masses compressing multiple organs.

The case highlights the importance of considering Burkitt lymphoma in HIV-positive patients with atypical symptoms.

This report serves as a guide for diagnosing and treating BL in high-risk populations.

Abstract

Many types of malignancies have been associated with immunodeficiency states, especially patients who are HIV positive. Burkitt lymphoma (BL) is one of those malignancies associated with HIV and it presents in three varieties. The endemic form is primarily seen in children, and it is associated with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). In this form, patients with Burkitt’s present with a large jaw mass. The second variety is seen in older adults. These patients usually present with abdominal and pelvic masses. This subtype is more prominent in the United States. The third variety of BL is seen in patients who are HIV positive. In this case report, we present an atypical presentation of BL secondary to undiagnosed HIV/AIDS with a very large tumor burden causing compressive symptoms. This case will further guide healthcare professionals in diagnosing BL, which presents uniquely in high-risk populations. This report will also serve as a review of the diagnosis and treatment options of BL.

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