Idiotype identity in a MALT-type lymphoma and B cells in Helicobacter pylori associated chronic gastritis.

Abstract

The distinct binding of alpha Id 27/165 to only reactive mucosal B cells is a first direct evidence for the evolution of MALT-type lymphoma from chronic gastritis. Since the target antigen of the lymphoma IgA has been found to be an autoantigen of MALT plasma cells it is suggested that this MALT-type lymphoma may have arisen after triggering by an autoimmune response resulting from H.p.-induced gastritis.