Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) belong to a group of cancers known as soft tissue sarcomas. They are fairly rare tumors that can start anywhere in the GI tract, but most often in the stomach or small intestine.  They can also be found in the esophagus, anus, colon and rectum, and sometimes appear in the membranous tissue lining the wall of the stomach (peritoneum) or in a fold of such membranous tissue (the omentum). Very rarely there are case reports of tumors arising in the appendix and/or pancreas.

They can spread to sites within the abdominal cavity and to the liver, although there are rare cases of spread to the lungs and bone.

Causes, Symptoms and Diagnosis

One of the causes of GIST is an abnormal form of the protein Kit, which is located on the surface of normal cells.  Patients with GIST may have trouble swallowing, gastrointestinal bleeding or, in rare cases, intestinal obstruction. These tumors most commonly cause abdominal pain, bleeding or signs of intestinal obstruction.   Generally, the definitive diagnosis is made with a biopsy, which can be obtained endoscopically.  Blood tests and CT scans may also be ordered.

Treatment Options

Surgery has been the main treatment of GIST, including minimally invasive procedures available at UCSD.  A new drug called Gleevec, which was tested at UCSD and other major cancer institutions, has been shown to be effective against GIST.  In some cases, your physician may prescribe a new drug called SUTENT, which is used with Gleevec, or when Gleevec did not stop the cancer from growing. Dr. Tony Reid has studied the use of these targeted agents for the treatment of GIST and has published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology on the use of SUTENT for patients with GIST that have progressed while on treatment with Gleevec.  See clinical trials for options available for patients with GIST. 

We’re With You Throughout the Journey

Whether your disease is treatable or in its end stages, we’ll be there for you with options for proven care that alleviates your discomfort while giving you the best quality life. The Howell Program, for example, offers palliative care, which specializes in symptom management, pain control, and psychological, spiritual and social problems. The goal of palliative care is the achievement of the best quality of life for patients and their families, not only at the end of life but also while you are still receiving treatment.