Treatment of low grade gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma in stage I with Helicobacter pylori eradication. Long-term results after sequential histologic and molecular follow-up.

Abstract

In most cases of gastric low-grade MALT lymphoma in stage I eradication of H. pylori can produce histologic regression of the lymphoma and this regression can be maintained for years. However, IgH gene monoclonality can be detected and persists in most cases. Although this persistent monoclonality seems to indicate the presence of a latent lymphoma population, over a period of 6 years it has not so far influenced the outcome. These findings indicate that in cases of localized gastric low-grade MALT lymphoma associated with H. pylori, the first step of treatment should be eradication of the H. pylori; however, a close and long follow-up is essential to determine the ultimate outcome of these patients and the possible significance of the persistent monoclonality.