Publication:

A clinical study on presentation, age distribution, various diagnostic methods adopted, treatment modalities being used and outcome of gastrointestinal stromal tumors

Background Gastro intestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are primary distinctive mesenchymal tumors of the gastro intestinal tract. Early diagnosis is important for better clinical outcome. The objective was to study presentation, age distribution, various diagnostic methods adopted, treatment modalities being used and outcome of gastrointestinal stromal tumors.

Methods Prospective and retrospective, descriptive study was carried out. After admission of the patient, a detailed clinical history was taken. Physical examination was carried out in detail as per the study proforma and findings were noted. All cases provisionally diagnosed as GISTS were further investigated.

Results Males and females were equally present i.e. 50% each. Pain in the abdomen was the most common clinical presentation in 66.7% of the cases. 12 cases (66.7%) of GISTs present in the stomach and 6 cases (33.3%) of GISTs present in the duodenum in various locations. Diagnostic confirmation was done for all the 18 cases by histopathology. Out of these 18 cases, 10 cases are benign GISTS (55.6%), whereas 8 cases were of malignant GISTS (44.4%). In total, among all the cases, 10 cases are spindle cell type (55.6%), 6 cases of epithelioid type (33.3%) and 2 cases of mixed cell type tumors (11.1%) are seen.

Conclusions GIST is more a disease of elder age group. CECT abdomen is a good diagnostic modality in detection of GIST. Wide excision with negative margins (2cm from tumor margin) is adequate and treatment of choice for benign tumors.