GIST – Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor

• GISTs may be malignant or benign
• More common in the stomach and small intestine but can be found anywhere along the GI tract.
• Begins in cells called th interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) – considered the pacemakers of the GI tract
• GIST may have a genetic component.  Neurofibromatosis type 1 is linked to GIST.
• Partial resections are usually adequate with GIST treatment with negative margins.  Formal gastrectomy is not usually necessary, nor is partial gastrectomy with nodal dissection.  Organ sparing approaches are usually appropriate.