Neoadjuvant Imatinib for Borderline Resectable GIST
A 36-year-old woman presented to the emergency department with black stools and syncope. Her hemoglobin was 7.0 and her red blood cells were microcytic. Upper endoscopy did not identify a clear source of bleeding, but a bulge in the third portion of the duodenum was noted. A CT scan showed a large extraintestinal mass, and follow-up esophagogastroduodenoscopy/endoscopic ultrasound with biopsy revealed a spindle cell neoplasm, consistent with gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST). Because of the size of the lesion and association with the superior mesenteric vein and common bile duct, she was referred to medical oncology for consideration of neoadjuvant imatinib. Neoadjuvant tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy for GISTs is emerging as a viable treatment strategy for borderline resectable tumors, although the dose, duration, and optimal imaging modalities have not been clearly established. Recent pathologic and radiographic data have provided insight into the mechanism and kinetics of this approach. This case report presents a patient for whom surgery was facilitated using neoadjuvant imatinib.
Target Audience
This activity has been designed to meet the educational needs of physicians and nurses involved in the management of patients with cancer.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to:
- Describe the rationale for the management methods used in this case presentation
- Describe the ideal management of a patient with borderline resectable disease
M. Zach Koontz, MD
Stanford University School of Medicine
Stanford, California
Brendan M. Visser, MD
Stanford University School of Medicine
Stanford, California
Pamela L. Kunz, MD
Stanford University School of Medicine
Stanford, California
Available Credit
- 1.00 Participation
- 1.00 Nurse
- 1.00 Physician