Tumor Cell Microenvironment and Microvessel Density Analysis in MALT Type Lymphoma

Background/Aim: MALT type lymphoma belongs to marginal zone lymphoma (MZL). MALT lymphomas' inflammatory microenvironment contributes to the pathogenesis of this cancer. In this study, we analyzed and quantified the tumor inflammatory microenvironment in MALT lymphoma samples and in healthy controls, and the microvessel content by immunohistochemistry and morphometric estimation. Patients and Methods: Biopsy specimens from MALT type lymphoma patients and from non-metastatic axillary lymph nodes (CTRL) were analyzed by immunochemistry in order to quantify CD3, CD4, CD8, CD68, CD163, tryptase, CD34, and Ki67 positive cells. Results: A substantial increase in the number of cells that were positive for the above markers and microvascular density (MVD) were observed in the MALT group. We also found a positive correlation between microvessels and CD8(+) cells and between CD8(+) cells and M2 type macrophages, while tryptase(+) mast cells correlated with CD4(+) cells. The mitotic proliferation index Ki67 was higher in MALT samples. Conclusion: The interactions between inflammatory cells in the tumor microenvironment and their correlation with angiogenesis is a useful tool in the development of new immunotherapy strategies.