Current management of GIST

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are the most common mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract. GISTs are generally resistant to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The understanding of pathology at molecular level promised the development of novel treatment modalities. KIT and PDGFRA gene mutations play an important role in the pathogenesis of GIST. IMutational analysis should be considered as standard practice during the diagnostic work-up, since it has a predictive value for sensitivity to molecular-targeted therapy and also has prognostic value. The aim of this review is to summarize recent knowledge about diagnosis, treatment and follow up of GIST.