Maltoma is positive for?
**Core Concept**
Maltoma, also known as MALT lymphoma, is a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that arises from the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT). It is a low-grade lymphoma that often involves the stomach, but can also occur in other sites such as the salivary glands, thyroid, and skin.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
MALT lymphomas are characterized by the presence of a specific genetic abnormality involving the t(11;18) translocation, which leads to the fusion of the API2 and MALT1 genes. This results in the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway, which promotes cell proliferation and survival. The diagnosis of MALT lymphoma is often confirmed by the presence of this genetic abnormality, as well as the expression of certain antigens such as CD20 and CD79a.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because MALT lymphomas are not typically associated with the CD30 antigen, which is more commonly expressed in Hodgkin lymphoma and certain types of T-cell lymphoma.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because the t(14;18) translocation is more commonly associated with follicular lymphoma, a different type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because the t(8;14) translocation is more commonly associated with Burkitt lymphoma, a high-grade lymphoma that is distinct from MALT lymphoma.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
MALT lymphomas are often associated with chronic inflammation, particularly in the stomach, where they can be triggered by Helicobacter pylori infection. The presence of this infection is a key risk factor for the development of gastric MALT lymphoma.
**Correct Answer: D. t(11;18) translocation**