MODEL RELEASED. Burkitt's lymphoma cancer. Image 2 of 2. Side view of the face of a child showing a large tumour in the jaw due to Burkitt's lymphoma cancer. The surface of the skin has begun to ulcerate over the growth. This cancer is thought to be caused by infection with the Epstein-Barr virus. It is found mainly in tropical Africa in the same places as malaria, and it exclusively affects young people between the ages of 12 and almost 30. It is thought that malaria in childhood alters the body's response to the virus, causing cells to become cancerous. Most cases can be treated with anticancer drugs or radiotherapy. See M131/540 for a front view of the same child.