Analysis of 151 consecutive gastric submucosal tumors according to tumor location

Abstract

Background: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the histopathological characteristics of gastric submucosal tumors (SMTs) according to their location.

Methods: A retrospective analysis of a prospective database of 151 consecutive patients who underwent surgery for gastric SMTs between 2001 and 2009 was performed.

Results: Of 151 gastric SMTs, 100 (66.2%) were gastrointestinal stromal tumors, 21 (13.9%) were leiomyomas, and 30 (19.9%) were other benign tumors. Leiomyoma was the most common neoplasm at the cardia (55.2%; P < 0.05), and the incidence of endophytic cardia tumors was higher compared with other locations (65.5%; P < 0.05). SMTs located at the cardia were significantly smaller than those found in the upper third (2.6 ± 1.0 vs. 4.1 ± 3.0; P < 0.05) and middle third (2.6 ± 1.0 vs. 3.9 ± 3.3; P < 0.05) of the stomach.

Conclusions: The characteristics of gastric SMTs located at the cardia differ significantly from those of gastric SMTs located in other regions of the stomach. These findings suggest that treatment strategy should be tailored by the location of tumors.