What Is Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue Lymphoma?

Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma, is a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma called marginal zone lymphoma. MALT lymphoma accounts for approximately 8% of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) cases, making it the third most common type of NHL. These lymphomas are usually slow-growing and remain, often for a long time, in the area in which they first developed. MALT primarily develops in the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue, which includes areas such as the stomach, lungs, and other mucous membranes. MALT lymphoma is relatively rare compared to other types of lymphomas.

Who Gets Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue (MALT) Lymphoma?

Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue (MALT) lymphoma can occur in individuals of any age, although it is more commonly diagnosed in adults, especially in middle-aged and older individuals. The exact cause of MALT lymphoma is not always clear, but there are certain risk factors and associations that can be observed:

• Chronic Infections: In some cases, MALT lymphoma can be associated with chronic infections, such as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection in the stomach or Chlamydia psittaci infection in the ocular adnexa (eye area). These infections can lead to the development of MALT lymphoma in affected tissues.
• Autoimmune Disorders: Some autoimmune diseases, such as Sjögren's syndrome and Hashimoto's thyroiditis, have been linked to an increased risk of MALT lymphoma.
• Immune System Disorders: Individuals with weakened immune systems, whether due to congenital immunodeficiency, HIV/AIDS, or immunosuppressive therapy (e.g., after organ transplantation), may have an increased risk of developing MALT lymphoma.
• Age and Gender: MALT lymphoma can occur at any age, but it is more commonly diagnosed in older adults. Some subtypes of MALT lymphoma may also have a slight predilection for a particular gender.

Why Do People Get Mucosa-Associated Lumphoid Tissue (MALT) Lymphoma?

It's important to note that MALT lymphoma is a relatively rare type of lymphoma, and not everyone with the risk factors mentioned above will develop the disease. The specific factors contributing to an individual's MALT lymphoma can vary, and research is ongoing to better understand the underlying causes and mechanisms of this condition.

Want to learn more about Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma? 

Keep reading Healthtree’s MALT Lymphoma 101 pages!

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