Lymphome de Burkitt : définition, diagnostic et prise en charge thérapeutique actuelle

Burkitt lymphoma is a rare and highly aggressive B-cell disorder characterized by rapid proliferation, and a translocation involving the c-MYC gene. It affects patients of all ages. The association with Epstein-Barr virus is well established in the 2022 World Health Organization classification, which identifies two molecular subtypes independent of epidemiological context. Diagnosis relies on a combination of clinical, histological, and cytogenetic features, allowing differentiation from other high-grade B-cell lymphomas. Prompt therapeutic management is crucial. Frontline therapy is based on intensive chemo-immunotherapy regimens, including anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies. In young patients, overall survival rates reach 80-90%. Poor prognosis is mainly observed in refractory or relapsed disease. Emerging therapeutic approaches such as cellular therapy (genetically modified T-cell receptor therapies), immunotherapy (bispecific antibodies), and targeted therapy - currently approved in other B-cell lymphomas, are under investigation in Burkitt lymphoma. This review summarizes the definition, historical background, diagnostic criteria, classification, and current therapeutic management of Burkitt lymphoma in 2025.