AIMS AND BACKGROUND: Gastrointestinal stromal tumors are the most common mesenchymal tumors of the digestive tract, although their incidence is low. These tumors make up a unique entity based on their molecular pathogenesis, immunohistochemical staining and responsiveness to targeted therapy. Gastrointestinal stromal tumors vary in malignant potential ranging from small incidentally detected tumors with an excellent outcome to aggressive sarcomas. Their optimal diagnostic approach and treatment remain a matter of debate. We present our experience in this rapidly moving field. METHODS: We present our experience on 15 patients presented during a 5-year period (June 2000-September 2005) with gastrointestinal stromal tumors located in the stomach. RESULTS: Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and CT scan revealed the tumors in all cases. All patients underwent curative surgery. A definitive diagnosis was established after surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Although an inverse correlation between level of risk and survival of patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors has been observed, 6 of our patients with an intermediate risk of recurrence had a favorable outcome.
AIMS AND BACKGROUND: Gastrointestinal stromal tumors are the most common mesenchymal tumors of the digestive tract, although their incidence is low. These tumors make up a unique entity based on their molecular pathogenesis, immunohistochemical staining and responsiveness to targeted therapy. Gastrointestinal stromal tumors vary in malignant potential ranging from small incidentally detected tumors with an excellent outcome to aggressive sarcomas. Their optimal diagnostic approach and treatment remain a matter of debate. We present our experience in this rapidly moving field. METHODS: We present our experience on 15 patients presented during a 5-year period (June 2000-September 2005) with gastrointestinal stromal tumors located in the stomach. RESULTS: Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and CT scan revealed the tumors in all cases. All patients underwent curative surgery. A definitive diagnosis was established after surgery. CONCLUSIONS: Although an inverse correlation between level of risk and survival of patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors has been observed, 6 of our patients with an intermediate risk of recurrence had a favorable outcome.