[Gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST): what implications for the gynaecologist?]

The case of a young female patient suffering from gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST) with significant gynaecological implications is reported. The first signs and symptoms of the tumour were seen at pelvic level. The roles of laparoscopy-laparotomy, immunohistochemical study (c-kit positivity), abdominal CT scan, PET and gastroscopy proved important and are discussed. Problems relating to anaemia, metrorrhagia and the presence of ovarian cysts associated with pelvic abdominal colic are examined from the clinical and gynaecological viewpoint. Medical oncological therapy was able to make use of a new approach: administration of anti-tyrosine kinase drugs which directly contrasted the development of this malignant tumour.