Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue is a normal component of the lymphatic system. It is a specialized tissue found in many parts of the body, and in particular in the adenoid and tonsilar tissue at the back of the mouth (the Waldeyer's ring), in the gastrointestinal tract (Peyer's patches, gut-associated lymphoid tissue, and mucosal aggregates in the colon and rectum), in the lung, and in the breast. A subset of B cells is programmed to return to MALT rather than to lymph nodes and bone marrow as is the usual pattern. T-cells are also involved in these tissues.

One recent MALToma study noted that "MALT is an immunological defense system to control local infection caused by H. pylori. It is composed of H. pylori-reactive cells, plasma cells, and other B cells and mimics lymphoid follicles known from typical nodal tissues." In other words, MALT generates mucosal immunity.

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Compiled by Vera Bradova © 1999-2001
Updated 9-1-2001