Prognosis of MALT Lymphoma

The API2-MALT1 chimeric gene might be expressed more commonly in the tumors of patients who are not infected with H. pylori; patients whose tumors express the gene are less likely to respond to eradication therapy.

Gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphomas often are associated with Helicobacter pylori infection. Eradication of the infection often results in both clinical and pathologic remission of the tumor, and many patients have good long-term prognoses (Journal Watch Gastroenterology Jan 25 2008). Some patients with MALT lymphoma, however, have tumors that do not respond to H. pylori eradication therapy and require more-aggressive treatment. Studies suggest that these tumors often express the chimeric gene API2-MALT1.

Investigators in Japan examined the pathologic features and clinical outcomes of gastric MALT lymphoma, with a particular focus on those tumors that are resistant to H. pylori eradication therapy. They retrospectively…

Reviewing Author

David J. Bjorkman, MD, MSPH (HSA), SM (Epid.)

Disclosures

Nothing to disclose

David J. Bjorkman, MD, MSPH (HSA), SM (Epid.)

Disclosures

Nothing to disclose