The importance of Helicobacter pylori in the development of gastric MALT lymphoma — induction of proliferation and immune suppression

Abstract

Marginal zone B-cell lymphomas are indolent, slow-growing lymphomas derived from mature B cells. They represent about 8% of all lymphomas and about 50% of all primary gastric lymphomas. Based on numerous epidemiological and microbiological studies, Helicobacter pylori is believed to be responsible for the progression of gastric MALT lymphomas (GML). Lymphoid tissue is physiologically absent from the stomach. However, GML can arise from chronic H. pylori infection and immune cell infiltration. This review article describes the mechanisms favouring the development of H. pylori-induced GML, and suggests potential targets for a more effective remission of lymphomas localized within the stomach.