Title of article :
The Fast and Furious, a Rare Case of Primary Burkitt’s Lymphoma of the Skull Base
Author/Authors :
Luqman, Rosla Otolaryngology - National University Of Malaysia , Bee-See, Goh Otolaryngology - National University Of Malaysia , Zahedi, Farah Dayana Otolaryngology - National University Of Malaysia , Thean Yean, Kew Radiology - National University Of Malaysia , Azizi, Abu Bakar Neurosurgery - National University Of Malaysia
Abstract :
Burkitt’s Lymphoma of the head and neck region commonly involves the facial bones in its endemic variant and
Waldeyer’s ring in the sporadic variant. Base of skull is a rare site for primary Burkitt’s lymphoma, with nasal and
neuro-ophthalmology symptoms as its presentation. We report a case of a three year-old girl presented with sudden and
progressive bilateral eye blindness associated with bilateral inward squint, proptosis and nasal blockage. Imaging study
demonstrated a large anterior skull base lesion with extension into ethmoid and sphenoid sinuses. Tumor was removed via
open surgery and histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of Burrkitt’s lymphoma. Patient had permanent
bilateral blindness postoperatively and succumbed two months after the initial presentation due to the agressiveness of
the tumor. The late presentation, aggressiveness of the disease and lack of financial support contribute to her untimely
demise. Burkitt’s Lymphoma of the base of skull warrants early tissue diagnosis by means of surgical intervention to ensure prompt commencement of treatment.
Keywords :
Blindness , Burkitt’s Lymphoma , nasal blockage , skull base
Journal title :
Egyptian Journal of Ear, Nose, Throat and Allied Sciences