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Gastric MALT Lymphoma

Marginal zone lymphoma of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue, often Helicobacter-driven

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Onkoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Gastric MALT Lymphoma?

Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma of the stomach is a low-grade B-cell lymphoma that arises in the setting of chronic gastritis from Helicobacter pylori or, less often, other organisms. It typically presents with dyspepsia, mild anemia, and indolent histology rather than aggressive symptoms.

Diagnosis combines endoscopy with multiple biopsies, urease testing, and histology with immunohistochemistry showing CD20-positive small lymphoid cells. Translocation t(11;18) BIRC3-MALT1 predicts antibiotic resistance and may direct early use of radiation or rituximab.

First-line therapy in localized Helicobacter-positive disease is triple or quadruple antibiotic eradication therapy. Persistent or progressive disease is treated with low-dose involved-site radiation, rituximab, or chlorambucil. Long-term endoscopic surveillance is required to detect relapse or transformation.

Symptoms

Persistent dyspepsia and epigastric discomfort
Iron deficiency anemia and occult gastrointestinal bleeding
Early satiety and mild weight loss
Endoscopic ulcers, nodularity, or thickened folds
Helicobacter pylori positivity in most cases

Risk Factors

Chronic Helicobacter pylori infection
Autoimmune gastritis or chronic inflammation
Family history of gastric malignancy
Smoking and high-salt diet
Translocation t(11;18) at diagnosis

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When dyspepsia persists despite acid suppression
  • When iron deficiency is unexplained
  • When endoscopy reveals abnormal mucosa
  • When prior diagnosis recurs on surveillance
  • When systemic symptoms suggest transformation

Treatment Methods

01
Helicobacter pylori eradication with triple or quadruple therapy
02
Repeat endoscopy with biopsy to confirm response
03
Involved-site radiotherapy for persistent localized disease
04
Rituximab in selected patients
05
Chlorambucil or bendamustine for advanced disease
06
Lifelong endoscopic surveillance
07
Multidisciplinary review with gastroenterology and hematology

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Onkoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.