A GIST (Gastrointestinal Stroma Tumor) is a malignant soft tissue tumor of the gastrointestinal tract. GISTs most commonly occur in the stomach, followed by the small intestine.

The diagnosis of a malignant tumor is a drastic event for every patient. First, the diagnosis must be confirmed, which entails many examinations. This time is usually characterized by fear and uncertainty about the future. Once the results are there, a team of specialists will develop an individual treatment plan for you. The results of the clarifications and healing options through therapies will then be discussed in detail with you.

To confirm the diagnosis, a tissue sample from the tumor is usually required. This involves precisely determining the type of tumor and its characteristics.

In order to determine the spread of the GIST, radiological examinations (CT, PET-CT) are carried out. After receiving all the results, statements can be made about the malignancy and the selection of the most effective therapy.

In order to achieve an optimal treatment strategy for patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors, collaboration between the various specialist areas is required as soon as the diagnosis has been made. This is done by discussing your case at the interdisciplinary tumor board.

If there is no evidence of offshoots (metastases), tumor surgery is the priority. Depending on various factors, including the tumor location and extent, drug therapy must be discussed before or after the operation.

If metastases are present, drug therapy options are usually available.

After therapy has been completed, a personal aftercare plan is put together with the aim of detecting a relapse of the disease early. This ensures regular care.