An update on gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) with a focus on extragastrointestinal stromal tumors (EGISTs)

Cancer research · Colorectal cancer

Imatinib (STI‑571) – a tyrosine kinase inhibitor known to inhibit the activities of KIT and PDGFRA – is currently the treatment of choice for metastatic and unresectable GISTs.

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) originate from mesenchymal cells and account for ~1% of primary malignant tumors in the digestive system. They are diagnosed based on characteristic immunohistochemical staining pattern, including CD117 and DOG1, as well as genetic analysis for mutations in the KIT and platelet‑derived growth factor receptor α genes. Extragastrointestinal stromal tumors (EGISTs) share very similar morphology with GISTs but arise outside the gastrointestinal tract. The most common locations for EGISTs are the omentum, mesentery, retroperitoneum, and pancreas, followed by the liver, vagina, and prostate. ... (abstract truncated for brevity)

EGISTs exhibit a poorer prognosis than GISTs, with lower 5‑year survival rates and later presentation. Understanding their distinct biology and therapeutic responses is critical for improving patient outcomes and guiding treatment decisions.

Evidence level: Korai humán adat. Kis vagy feltáró emberi adat.

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