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Spontaneous Remission Of African Lymphoma

Burkitt & Kyalwazi, 1967Lymphoma

British Journal of Cancer 21(1): March 1967; 14-16

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Abstract

Three cases of spontaneous regression of Burkitt’s lymphoma are reviewed and additional clinical and laboratory observations relevant to the role of host defences are summarized. Spontaneous regression of Burkitt’s lymphoma provides compelling evidence for antitumor immunity.

Case Details

Personal Characteristics

A girl aged 4 years

Clinical Characteristics

Malignant lymphoma involving her left maxilla and invading the orbit

Remission Characteristics

One year later the child’s home was traced. There was no evidence of tumour and the gap left by the extracted tooth was confirmatory evidence of identity. The patient was last seen in july 1966, symptom-free over two years after diagnosis.

Treatment & Mechanisms

Proposed Remission Mechanisms

Not discussed

Clinical Treatment

After removing tissue for biopsy through the socket exposed in extracting a loose tooth, treatment was postponed until anaemia was corrected by blood transfusion. This was refused by the mother and the child was taken home without receiving blood or chemotherapy.