Mucosa associated lymphoid tissue

Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) is a diffuse system of small concentrations of lymphoid tissue found in various submucosal membrane sites of the body, such as the gastrointestinal tract, nasopharynx, thyroid, breast, lung, salivary glands, eye, and skin. MALT is populated by lymphocytes such as T cells and B cells, as well as plasma cells and macrophages, each of which is well situated to encounter antigens passing through the mucosal epithelium.

Structure

MALT is an integral part of the immune system. It is structured to provide immune surveillance and protection against pathogens that may enter the body through mucosal tissues. MALT contains a variety of immune cells, including T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells. These cells work together to identify and eliminate potentially harmful pathogens.

Function

The primary function of MALT is to facilitate the immune response to antigens that enter the body through the mucosal tissues. The lymphocytes in MALT are capable of mounting an immune response against these antigens, leading to their destruction or neutralization. MALT also plays a role in the production of immunoglobulin A (IgA), an antibody that plays a crucial role in the immune function of mucous membranes.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities or diseases of the MALT can lead to a variety of clinical conditions. For example, MALT lymphoma is a type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that arises from the B cells in MALT. This type of lymphoma is most commonly found in the stomach, but can also occur in other mucosal sites. Other conditions that may involve the MALT include autoimmune diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, and certain types of infections.

See also

• Gut-associated lymphoid tissue
• Bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue
• Nasal-associated lymphoid tissue