Potential biologic markers in Burkitt's lymphoma

Specific biochemical molecules used as potential biologic markers, including modified nucleosides, polyamines, and pyrimidine catabolic end products, were quantitatively measured in the urine of seven patients with Burkitt's lymphoma before, during, and after one or more courses of therapy. The results of this preliminary study demonstrated that patients with this disease frequently excrete significantly increased amounts of modified nucleosides (considered to be derived primarily from transfer ribonucleic acid), polyamines, and β aminoisobutyric acid during the course of their disease. With successful treatment and rapid destruction of tumor cells, a concomitant rise in these molecules occurs. Elevations were observed prior to chemotherapy and changes in levels associated with treatment or tumor progression appeared to correlate with disease status and to aid in assessing antitumor response. Periodic follow up analysis of these molecules may be helpful in appraising relapse or recurrence of the malignancy prior to overt evidence of tumor by existing clinical means.