Clinical Evidence Suggesting The Development Of An Immunological Response Against African Lymphoma
Treatment of Burkitt's Tumour, Burchenal J. H. & Burkitt D., editors [New York: Springer-Verlag 1967, UICC Monograph Series, Vol 8, 197-208]
View Original Source →Abstract
There have lately been reports suggesting a beneficial effect of natural measles infection on the course of acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The authors have observed a complete regression of histologically diagnosed Burkitt’s lymphoma in an untreated African child who contracted measles shortly after diagnostic biopsy.
Case Details
Clinical Characteristics
Regressions have been observed following failed chemotherapy and in absence of any chemotherapy
Remission Characteristics
Sustained regressions cannot be attributed solely to chemotherapy
Treatment & Mechanisms
Proposed Remission Mechanisms
An immunological host response
Clinical Treatment
Chemotherapy
Additional Notes
It is difficult to determine how often spontaneous remission occurs. The success of therapy renders it unjustifiable to delay treatment for more than a short time and it is therefore unlikely to be observed in patients who have reported for treatment. It could be that it commonly occurs, in which case medical advice would not be sought. In one patient, however, who was taken home by her parents before treatment was commenced but after a biopsy had been obtained, evidence of spontaneous remission has been obtained.