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Overview

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A gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) initiates in the digestive system. It mainly affects the small intestine and stomach; however, it may affect any part of the gastrointestinal system, from the esophagus to the anus. Cancer begins when the cells lining the gastrointestinal cavity start growing and multiplying uncontrollably. GIST is believed to develop in the nerve cells that are present in the lining of the gastrointestinal system. The function of these nerve cells is to move food forward in the gastrointestinal system.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

A Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor is a rare type of cancer that develops in the digestive tract, most often in the stomach or small intestine, arising from specialized cells called interstitial cells of Cajal that control gut movement.

Patients with GIST may experience abdominal pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, nausea, vomiting, early satiety, or an abdominal mass, though in some cases the tumor may be detected incidentally during scans for other reasons.

Regular follow-up at American Oncology Institute is crucial for GIST patients, with imaging tests and medical reviews every few months to monitor treatment response and detect any recurrence early.

Treatment for GIST at American Oncology Institute includes surgery to remove the tumor, targeted therapies like tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and personalized treatment approaches depending on the tumor’s size, location, and mutation profile.

The prognosis depends on the tumor’s size, location, and genetic mutations, but with early diagnosis and advanced targeted treatments available at AOI, many patients can achieve long-term disease control and improved survival outcomes.

At American Oncology Institute, GIST is diagnosed using advanced imaging like CT or MRI scans, endoscopy, biopsy, and immunohistochemistry tests such as KIT and DOG1 markers to confirm the tumor type accurately.

You can consult highly experienced oncologists at AOI for comprehensive GIST care by calling the helpline 1800 208 2000 or booking an appointment online at https://www.americanoncology.com/bookanappointment