On Jun. 7, 2006, gene profiling, a molecular technique that examines many genes simultaneously, can accurately distinguish between two types of immune cell tumors, Burkitt’s lymphoma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).

Burkitt’s lymphoma and DLBCL appear similar when viewed under a microscope but correct diagnosis is critical because each requires very different treatments. Burkitt’s lymphoma and DLBCL are types of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL), a malignancy of B lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell. Healthy lymphocytes help destroy bacteria, viruses and other infectious agents invading the body. Burkitt’s lymphoma is seen primarily in children, but can affect adults ages 30 to 50.