Health in Focus Series | Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors | Sharona B. Ross, MD, FACS
Sharona B. Ross, MD is an Advanced Foregut and HPB Surgeon with over 9 years of diverse experience in her field and specific expertise in advanced gastrointestinal/hepatobiliary, robotic and minimally invasive surgery. She currently works at Florida Hospital Tampa and she has additionally engaged in local, national and... more
Understanding Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs)
Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are a rare type of cancer that occurs in the digestive system, most commonly in the stomach or small intestine. These tumors arise from specialized cells in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract's walls, known as interstitial cells of Cajal, which help coordinate the movement of food through the digestive system.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
GISTs may not cause symptoms, especially when they are small. However, larger tumors can lead to abdominal pain, blood in the stool, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss. Because these symptoms can be similar to other GI conditions, diagnosing GISTs often requires imaging studies such as CT scans, endoscopies, or biopsies.
Treatment Options
The primary treatment for GISTs is surgery to remove the tumor, which can be curative if the tumor hasn't spread. For larger or more advanced tumors, targeted therapies may be used to shrink the tumor before surgery or to manage the disease if it cannot be fully removed.
Importance of Early Detection
Early detection of GISTs can improve treatment outcomes and increase the likelihood of a full recovery. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are crucial, especially since these tumors can recur.
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