Stromal Tumor of Stomach: Report of a Case

Abstract

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), previously thought to be smooth muscle neoplasms, represent an unique disease entity among gastrointestinal tumors. Although the real cellular origin of GIST is still unclear recent study suggested that interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs) may represent a possible histogenetic origin. With the recovery of c-kit proto-oncogen over chromosome 4q, its encoded protein CD 117 had opened a new era for the diagnosis and treatment of GIST. We reported a 80-year-old lady suffering from stomach GIST with an initial symptom of palpable abdominal mass. Abdominal sonographic examination showed a huge hyperechoic tumor with central echo-lucency over her left abdomen. Subsequent upper gastrointestinal panendoscopy revealed an ulcerated submucosal tumor of stomach with minimal bleeding. Abdomen computed tomography suggested similar finding with suspected pancreas invasion. She received laparotomy and the tumor was totally removed. Pathologic examination confirmed that the tumor was GIST with high mitotic index and had positive c-kit proto-oncogen (CD 117). We will discuss briefly the relationship, between CD 117 and GIST and its implication inpatient's management.