Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors—A Mini Review

Abstract

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract. They are potentially malignant, and have an unpredictable evolution. The origin of these tumors is in the interstitial cells of Cajal, which are cells that are interposed between the intramural neurons and the smooth muscle cells of the digestive tract. GISTs are characterized by mutations in the gene c-Kit, but also other mutations, such as those of the platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha. The most common locations of these tumors are the stomach and small intestine, although they can occur at any level of the digestive tract and occasionally in the omentum, mesentery and peritoneum. Most cases of GISTs are sporadic, and about 5% of cases are part of family genetic syndromes. The correct diagnosis of GIST is determined by histopathological examination and immunohistochemistry. According to histopathology, there are three main types of GISTs: spindle cell type, epithelioid type and mixed type. The therapeutic management of GIST includes surgery, endoscopic treatment and chemotherapy. The prognosis of patients with GIST varies depending on a number of factors, such as risk category, GIST stage, treatment applied and recurrence after treatment.