[Evidence-based standardized diagnosis and treatment of small gastrointestinal stromal tumors]

The actual incidence of small gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) increases gradually. Although the biological behavior of most of small GIST is benign or indolent, a few small GIST can develope to recurrence and metastasis with biological invasive behavior. Identification of biological behavior and malignant potential is the cornerstone of treatment. For non-gastric small GIST, surgery is always the treatment of choice. Regarding gastric small GIST, close follow-up is acceptable for patients without risk factors detected by endoscopic ultrasonography. Surgery should be suggested for those with high risks, or significant growth of tumor during follow-up. Complete resection with function preservation is the principle of surgery. Besides, individualized treatment should also be taken into consideration.