I think of myself as having been W&W for over 20 years... that is how long I had an enlarged spleen and low platelet count before my lung involvement came to light by accident... I had complications from my hysterectomy ... and when looking for the cause of my intestine problems... saw the strange "pneumonia ... which turned out of be bilateral MALT.
I had actually not followed up with it because I was feeling fine. It was a couple of years later that did I start having discomfort and begin treatment.
I had Rituxan which resulted in a partial response. But even the "easy" treatments are not without risk. I had several cuts that got infected and needed antibiotics as a result of my depressed immune system. On the other hand, my spleen was normal size for the first time and I am no longer covered with bruises!
One of the good things about indolent MALT is that even when you are finding treatment... you can take your time and make an informed decision.
I know it is frustrating not to have answers... hang in there. There is time....
