Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors, commonly known as GISTs, are rare tumors that form in the digestive tract — most often in the stomach or small intestine.
Though uncommon, GISTs are the most prevalent type of soft tissue sarcoma found in the gastrointestinal system.
These tumors develop from special nerve cells in the wall of the GI tract known as the interstitial cells of Cajal, which help regulate digestion. When something goes wrong in the genes that control these cells, a tumor can form.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
GISTs can be sneaky — many people have no symptoms until the tumor has grown significantly. However, some signs to look out for include:
- Abdominal pain or swelling
- Feeling full after eating small meals
- Nausea or vomiting
- Gastrointestinal bleeding, which may appear as black or bloody stools
- Fatigue and weakness
- Unexplained weight loss
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's essential to consult a doctor promptly.
What Causes GISTs
Most GISTs are caused by mutations in the KIT or PDGFRA genes. These mutations cause the cells to grow uncontrollably, leading to tumor formation. While anyone can develop GIST, it’s most common in adults over 50 and rarely seen in children.
There’s no direct link to lifestyle or diet — it’s often a matter of genetic changes rather than external factors.
How GISTs Are Diagnosed
To accurately diagnose a GIST, doctors use a combination of:
- Endoscopy to view the inside of the stomach or intestines
- CT scans or MRIs to detect the tumor’s size and location
- Biopsy and immunohistochemistry tests to confirm the presence of specific proteins like KIT (CD117)
Treatment Options for GIST
Thanks to medical advancements, GISTs can be treated effectively — especially when caught early. Treatment may include:
1. Surgery
Often the first option, especially for small or localized tumors. Removing the tumor can sometimes eliminate the disease entirely.
2. Targeted Therapy
Medications like imatinib (Gleevec) specifically target mutated proteins that drive GIST growth. These are life-changing for patients with unresectable or metastatic tumors.
3. Radiation and Chemotherapy
Less commonly used, as GISTs don’t typically respond well to traditional chemotherapy. But in select cases, they may be part of a broader treatment plan.
Living With GIST
Living with GIST can be challenging, but many patients manage their condition well with ongoing targeted therapy, regular scans, and support from care teams. Support groups and organizations dedicated to rare cancers offer helpful resources, encouragement, and community.
Final Thoughts
While Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors are rare, awareness and early diagnosis make a big difference in outcomes. New treatments and research are improving the outlook for patients every year. If you or someone you know is facing a GIST diagnosis, know that hope, support, and treatment options are available.