MALT lymphoma

Hi. Marginal zone B-cell lymphoma of MALT (Mucosa Associated Lymphoid Tissue) is an extranodal type of lymphoma. The stomach is the most frequent site of occurrence, hence the term gastric MALT lymphoma. Other less frequent sites include the lung, orbit, thyroid, and salivary gland. H. pylori infection is associated with the development of gastric MALT lymphoma, as well as gastric adenocarcinoma. There is a five- to sixfold increase in risk of gastric malignancy, including adenocarcinoma and lymphoma. Most patients with gastric MALT lymphoma complain of vague abdominal pain similar to that of peptic ulcer disease. Rarely do they complain of systemic symptoms typical of patients with lymphoma. Endoscopy is the best way to diagnose this disease entity. Biopsy of suspicious sites can be done. Treatment of H. pylori positive gastric MALT is antibiotic and follow-up endoscopy after 3 to 6 months. Those with partial response should receive a second course of antibiotics. Patients with H. pylori negative gastric MALT should receive radiotherapy initially because they will not respond to antibiotics intake. Hope this helps. Good luck and take care.