Multicentric malignant gastrointestinal stromal tumor

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Malignant gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are rare sarcomas, typically originating in the stomach wall.
• Multiple GISTs are exceptionally uncommon, often linked to specific genetic syndromes like neurofibromatosis type 1 or familial GIST.
• This case presents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge due to its multicentric nature.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of multicentric malignant GIST in a 70-year-old woman.
• To highlight the diagnostic considerations and surgical management of such a rare presentation.
• To contribute to the literature on GIST, emphasizing its diverse clinical manifestations.

Main Methods:

• A 70-year-old woman presented with abdominal pain, anorexia, and weight loss.
• Diagnostic imaging included ultrasound and barium studies, revealing small bowel mass, peritoneal deposits, and liver mass.
• Surgical intervention involved segmental resection of affected intestinal segments, followed by histopathological analysis.

Main Results:

• Histopathology confirmed multicentric malignant GIST-not otherwise specified (GIST-NOS).
• The patient underwent successful segmental resection of the jejunum and distal ileum.
• Post-operative follow-up at three months showed no evidence of disease recurrence.

Conclusions:

• Multicentric malignant GIST, though rare, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of complex abdominal masses.
• Prompt surgical resection and thorough histopathological examination are crucial for diagnosis and management.
• This case underscores the importance of recognizing unusual presentations of GIST for effective patient care.