Gastric lymphoma is a rare form of cancer that starts in the lymphoid (immune) tissue of the stomach lining. The two primary types are MALT (mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue) lymphoma, which is usually slow-growing and often linked to H. pylori infection, and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, a more aggressive, fast-growing variety. Diagnosis is typically made by endoscopy with biopsy to sample and examine the stomach tissue.
Early signs of gastric lymphoma can be subtle. As the disease progresses, you may notice:
The exact cause of gastric lymphoma isn't always clear, but several factors can raise your risk:
At GastroDoxs in Katy, our board-certified gastric lymphoma specialists combine advanced diagnostics with personalized treatment plans designed just for you. We prioritize compassionate, patient-centered care from your first consultation through recovery. Don't wait-book your appointment today to get expert support and take charge of your digestive health.
We've successfully treated more than 1K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Gastric lymphoma is diagnosed through a combination of blood tests, imaging studies (such as CT scans), and an upper endoscopy with biopsy. During endoscopy, small tissue samples are taken from the stomach lining and examined under a microscope to confirm the presence and subtype of lymphoma.
Yes. Helicobacter pylori infection is a well?established risk factor for gastric MALT lymphoma. Chronic H. pylori-induced inflammation can trigger abnormal lymphoid tissue growth, and eradicating the bacteria with antibiotics often leads to lymphoma regression in early MALT cases.
Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is an aggressive, fast?growing form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma that can arise in the stomach. It typically requires systemic chemotherapy and sometimes radiation or targeted therapy to achieve remission.
No. Endoscopy is performed under light sedation, which numbs discomfort and keeps you relaxed. Most patients feel little to no pain during the procedure, though they may experience mild throat soreness afterward.
Gastric lymphoma staging ranges from I to IV. Stage I is confined to the stomach wall; Stage II involves nearby lymph nodes; Stage III extends throughout the abdomen; Stage IV means the disease has spread beyond the abdominal cavity to distant organs or lymphoid tissues.
Treatment duration varies by lymphoma type and stage. Antibiotic therapy for H. pylori-associated MALT lymphoma typically lasts 2-4 weeks. Chemotherapy regimens often span several months, and radiation courses may take 3-6 weeks. Your specialist will provide a personalized timeline.
Yes. A soft, low-acid, and low-fat diet can help reduce stomach irritation and manage symptoms during treatment. Eating small, frequent meals and avoiding spicy or highly acidic foods supports comfort and nutritional balance. A gastroenterologist or dietitian can design a tailored meal plan.
No. Surgery is not required for most gastric MALT lymphomas, as many respond well to antibiotics or chemotherapy. Surgical resection may be considered only for complications such as bleeding, perforation, or tumors that do not respond to other treatments.
Survival rates depend on the subtype and stage. Early?stage MALT lymphomas have a 5-year survival rate exceeding 80%. Diffuse large B-cell lymphomas carry a lower but still favorable prognosis-often around 60-70% with modern chemo and targeted therapies.
You should schedule a consultation if you experience persistent upper abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, early satiety (feeling full quickly), chronic nausea or vomiting, or signs of anemia. Early evaluation leads to prompt diagnosis and the best treatment outcomes.
