Burkitt’s lymphoma is positive for ?
**Core Concept**
Burkitt's lymphoma is a highly aggressive type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma characterized by its rapid growth and high rate of cell division. It is often associated with translocations involving the c-MYC gene, leading to its dysregulation and uncontrolled cell proliferation.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Burkitt's lymphoma is classically positive for the c-MYC gene rearrangement, which is a result of a translocation between chromosomes 8 and 14 (t(8;14)). This translocation brings the c-MYC gene under the control of the immunoglobulin heavy chain enhancer, leading to its overexpression and subsequent lymphomagenesis. The c-MYC protein plays a crucial role in cell proliferation and apoptosis, and its dysregulation is a hallmark of Burkitt's lymphoma.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is incorrect because Burkitt's lymphoma is not typically associated with CD30 positivity, which is more commonly seen in Hodgkin lymphoma and anaplastic large cell lymphoma.
* **Option B:** This option is incorrect because while Burkitt's lymphoma may express B-cell markers such as CD20 and CD10, it is not a defining characteristic of the disease.
* **Option C:** This option is incorrect because while c-MYC rearrangements are common in Burkitt's lymphoma, they are not exclusive to this disease and can be seen in other types of lymphoma and carcinoma.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Burkitt's lymphoma is a highly aggressive disease that requires prompt and aggressive treatment. It is often associated with a high level of tumor lysis syndrome, which can lead to severe hyperkalemia, hyperphosphatemia, and hypocalcemia. Early recognition and management of these complications are crucial to preventing morbidity and mortality.
**Correct Answer:** D. c-MYC rearrangement.