An unusual case of Burkitt's lymphoma presenting as a gingival enlargement

Burkitt's lymphoma is an undifferentiated non-Hodgkin's B-cell lymphoma. Three clinical subtypes are recognized: African (endemic), American and other areas (sporadic) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) associated. Sporadic Burkitt's lymphoma is a rare malignancy among Asian population. This report describes a case of sporadic Burkitt's lymphoma presenting as generalized gingival enlargement with an alarmingly rapid spread. This type of rapid progression bespeaks the need for prompt recognition and life-saving referral by the dental practitioner. The purpose of this case report and review of the literature was to illustrate the fact that an inconspicuous and benign looking gingival enlargement may turn out to be an aggressive malignancy like Burkitt's lymphoma.