Common Gastric Subepithelial Tumors in Koreans

Abstract

Gastric subepithelial tumors (SETs) are often discovered incidentally and are usually benign. Their subepithelial location complicates accurate diagnosis; however, most lesions can be differentiated using either endoscopy or endoscopic ultrasonography. Gastric SETs location, color, surface change, size, consistency, and movability are evaluated during endoscopy. Endoscopic ultrasound assesses their originating layer, echogenicity, and homogeneity. Common gastric SETs in Koreans include ectopic pancreas, lipoma, leiomyoma, other benign lesions, neuroendocrine tumors, and gastrointestinal stromal tumors with malignant potential. Furthermore, extraluminal compression by normal organs or benign lesions as well as other malignant tumors may have a similar appearance to gastric SET. Understanding the endoscopic and endoscopic ultrasound characteristics of common gastric subepithelial lesions can reduce the rate of unnecessary examinations and excessive treatment. In this article, these characteristics are reviewed through various images that are common in the Korean population.