Gastrointestinal stromal tumors of the colon and rectum

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract. GISTs of the colon and rectum are rare, comprising 5% of all cases. There are few data available for colorectal GISTs to guide management. Although they can be small and found incidentally, the majority appear to be at high risk and carry a worse prognosis than gastric GISTs. Surgery remains the mainstay of treatment for primary disease. GISTs are targeted effectively with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) such as imatinib mesylate.

Source: Seminars in Colon and Rectal Surgery - January 28, 2015 Category: Gastroenterology Authors: Dimitra G. Theodoropoulos Source Type: research