Sinonasal mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma

Area of Science:

• Immunopathology
• Oncology
• Otorhinolaryngology

Background:

• Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphomas are typically low-grade B-cell neoplasms arising at extranodal sites.
• Acquired MALT develops in response to chronic inflammation, serving as a potential origin for these lymphomas.
• Nomenclature for these lymphomas has been historically complex, but immunohistochemistry aids precise classification.

Observation:

• Extranodal lymphomas, particularly low-grade B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphomas, frequently originate from acquired MALT.
• Reports of MALT-derived lymphoma in the sinonasal region are exceptionally rare, with only two previously documented cases.
• This review includes an additional case of sinonasal MALT lymphoma in a patient with a history of chronic sinusitis.

Findings:

• Immunohistochemical advancements enable more accurate subtyping of MALT-derived lymphomas.
• The clinical, histologic, and immunophenotypic characteristics of MALT-derived lymphomas are reviewed.
• Developmental theories regarding MALT-derived lymphomas are discussed in the context of current literature.

Implications:

• This case contributes to the scarce literature on sinonasal MALT lymphomas, enhancing understanding of this rare extranodal malignancy.
• Precise subtyping through immunohistochemistry is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management of MALT lymphomas.
• Further research into the developmental pathways of MALT lymphomas may reveal novel therapeutic targets.