Gastrointestinal stromal tumors: current management

Abstract

Herein, we review the current management of localized and advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs). Although surgery remains the standard of care for patients with localized GIST, adjuvant imatinib can delay recurrence in some of these patients. In patients with advanced or metastatic disease, the standard of care is imatinib and surgery of residual masses is an option. Preoperative imatinib is an emerging treatment option for patients who require cytoreductive therapy. Sunitinib is a standard second-line therapy.