What is a gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST)?
A gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) is a type of tumor that originates in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The GI tract, also known as the digestive tract, is a continuous tube that runs from the mouth to the anus. It’s responsible for the digestion and absorption of food and the elimination of waste products. The GI tract includes several major organs, each playing a specific role in the digestive process. GIST can develop along any part of the digestive tract, but most commonly occurs in the stomach and small intestine.
GIST is a type of sarcoma, a cancer that develops in the body’s bones, muscles, or other soft tissues like those found in the GI tract. Gastrointestinal stromal tumors are a common type of sarcoma, but they’re still considered rare.
Managing GIST takes extraordinary skill and expertise. Penn Medicine has highly trained surgeons who are leaders in removing hard-to-treat GIST masses. In addition, our team of cancer specialists includes gastroenterologists, radiologists, pathologists, and surgeons who collaborate to identify the treatments and support services best suited for your needs.
GIST symptoms
The symptoms of gastrointestinal stromal tumors vary depending on the tumor’s size and location. The following signs may be associated with a GIST:
- Abdominal pain
- Gastrointestinal bleeding
- Blood in your stool
- Nausea
- Vomiting blood
- Change in your bowel habits
- Fatigue
- Problems swallowing
- Decreased appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
In some cases, GISTs might not show symptoms and are discovered during imaging studies for other conditions.
What causes a GIST tumor?
The exact cause of gastrointestinal stromal tumors isn’t fully understood. However, most GISTs are associated with mutations in certain genes, most commonly the KIT gene, which leads to uncontrolled cell growth.
Certain risk factors can increase your risk of GIST, including:
- Age: GISTs are more common among people older than 50.
- Genetics: While most GISTs aren’t inherited, there are rare cases where several family members have been diagnosed with gastrointestinal stromal tumors.
- Primary familial GIST syndrome: A rare inherited disorder, this syndrome is characterized by the development of multiple gastrointestinal stromal tumors at a younger age and can be passed down from one generation to the next.
- Neurofibromatosis type 1: Also known as von Recklinghausen disease, this genetic disorder is characterized by the development of multiple noncancerous tumors that primarily affect the nervous system and skin.
- Carney-Stratakis syndrome: This rare inherited condition increases your risk of developing gastrointestinal stromal tumors.
How gastrointestinal stromal tumors are diagnosed
Accurate diagnosis is essential for creating individualized treatment plans for GISTs. Our team of cancer specialists uses advanced diagnostic tools to enhance the detection and treatment of gastrointestinal stromal tumors.
How gastrointestinal stromal tumors are treated
Successfully treating GIST requires specialized expertise and training. Treatment options may involve surgery, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, radiation, or other therapies. Our team of specialists uses up-to-date research to create a treatment plan tailored to achieve the best possible outcome.
Find out more about GIST treatment at Penn Medicine.
Benefits of GIST care at Penn Medicine
Our specialists provide world-class cancer expertise and are committed to delivering the best cancer treatment. When you choose to partner with us, you can expect:
- Uncommon surgical skills: We have highly skilled surgeons who are experts in removing challenging GIST masses. In some cases, surgeons from different specialties work together to perform complicated procedures for tumors that affect multiple organs or vital tissues.
- Customized therapies: We provide access to the latest GIST treatments, including targeted cancer drugs that stop a tumor’s growth.
- Diagnostic expertise: Our specialists understand how GIST cancer cells look and act. They use this experience and advanced testing to accurately diagnose GIST and guide treatment.
- Expertise in hereditary cancers: Genetic factors may increase your chances of developing GIST. Our expert team treats many cancers that have a hereditary origin. Genetic counselors can help you make treatment decisions based on your cancer risk.
- Collaborative care: Our specialists take a team approach to GIST treatment. Medical oncologists, gastroenterologists, radiologists, and pathologists work together to create the most effective treatment plan for you.
- Comprehensive support: Our oncology nurse navigators offer individualized support, attending to your needs, sharing information, and ensuring timely scheduling of essential tests and consultations.
The care team at Penn Medicine is dedicated to delivering ongoing care. We tailor a post-treatment follow-up plan to monitor your well-being and support you every step of the way.
Rated “exceptional” by The National Cancer Institute
Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center is a world leader in cancer research, patient care, and education. Our status as a national leader in cancer care is reflected in our continuous designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) since 1973, one of 7 such centers in the United States. The ACC is also a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, one of a select few cancer centers in the U.S., that are working to promote equitable access to high-quality, advanced cancer care.