Outcome and prognostic factors of primary gastrointestinal stromal tumours following complete surgical resection

Abstract

Although rare, gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal neoplasms, accounting for 1-2% of all neoplasms of the digestive tract. They are derived from malignant transformation of the interstitial cells of Cajal, c-KIT-positive cells of neuroendocrine origin that function as the pacemaker in peristalsis. Only 70% of patients with GISTs are symptomatic. Initial diagnosis may be difficult as symptoms and signs are often nonspecific; such as nausea, vomiting, vague abdominal discomfort, weight loss and early satiety. Bleeding due to erosion into the GI lumen may lead to patients presenting with hematemesis, melena or anemia. Rupture of a GIST can result in acute abdominal pain presenting as a surgical emergency. ABSTRACT