Primary Oral MALT Lymphoma Without Nodal or Systemic Involvement: A Rare Presentation

ABSTRACT: Extranodal marginal zone lymphoma of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT lymphoma) is a low-grade B-cell lymphoma, whose primary manifestation in the oral cavity is exceedingly rare. Owing to its nonspecific clinical presentation and histopathological overlap with benign inflammatory or reactive lesions, the diagnosis of MALT lymphoma can be challenging. We report the case of a middle-aged patient presenting with a slow-growing, asymptomatic oral lesion initially suspected to be an oral lipoma. Histopathological examination, complemented by immunohistochemical analysis, confirmed the diagnosis of primary oral MALT lymphoma. This report highlights the diagnostic challenges associated with oral lymphoid proliferations and underscores the critical importance of clinicopathological correlation for achieving an accurate diagnosis and ensuring appropriate management.