[Gastrointestinal stromal tumors. An update]

Abstract

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIS) are a heterogeneous group of tumors that express CD 117 molecule in their sur face. They may behave as benign tumors or be highly aggressive. A better survival of patients with these tumors has been achieved using the new molecular therapies such as imatinib mesylate, sunitinib and others. This review analyzes the prognostic factors of these tumors, their clinical features and the criteria for malignant behavior. The value of therapeutic alternatives such as radiotherapy chemotherapy and the new molecular therapies are also discussed.