Burkitt's Lymphoma as a differential diagnosis of dental infection

Abstract

Introduction: Burkitt's lymphoma is a highly aggressive non-Hodgkin type lymphoma originated from a mutation in B lymphocytes. It clinically demonstrates malignant characteristics such as rapid evolution, destruction of bone corticals and tooth mobility, in addition to increased facial volume adjacent to the maxillary bones. This tumor is difficult to diagnose due to its nonspecific clinical characteristics, which can often lead to a late diagnosis and treatment, worsening the patient's prognosis and survival rate. Case Report: The clinical case is a female patient, 21 years old, with a history of swelling in the left hemiface of sudden evolution, associated with pain, fever and a report of recent extraction. Clinical history and nonspecific clinical findings simulated an odontogenic infection, which delayed diagnosis and correct treatment. After specific imaging exams, surgical exploration and histopathological examination, it was possible to reach a definitive diagnosis of Burkitt's lymphoma and adequate management of this pathology. Conclusion: The role of dentists in the early detection of this pathology with involvement of the jaws is extremely important, since remission and/ or cure depends on the extent of the disease, its biological behavior and the time of diagnosis.