Treatment Options for GIST?

The main treatment options for gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) include surgery, targeted drug therapy, and radiation therapy. Here are the primary treatment options for GISTs:

1. Surgery:

- Complete surgical removal of the tumor is the primary treatment goal. The type of surgery depends on the tumor's location and size.

- If the tumor is localized and hasn't spread, surgical resection may be sufficient.

- In some cases, minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopic or robotic surgery can be used to remove the tumor.

2. Targeted Drug Therapy:

- Targeted drugs inhibit the abnormal proteins, often driven by mutations, that cause uncontrolled growth in GIST cells.

- Imatinib (Gleevec) is the first-line targeted drug for most GISTs.

- Other targeted drugs used include sunitinib (Sutent), regorafenib (Stivarga), avapritinib (Ayvakit), and ripretinib (Qinlock).

3. Radiation Therapy:

- Radiation therapy may be used before surgery to shrink the tumor or after surgery to kill any remaining GIST cells.

- It can also be used to relieve symptoms caused by advanced or recurrent GISTs.

4. Adjuvant Therapy:

- Following surgical removal of a GIST, adjuvant targeted drug therapy may be recommended to reduce the risk of recurrence.

5. Clinical Trials:

- Participation in clinical trials may offer access to experimental treatments and the latest advancements in GIST management.

The specific treatment approach for a person with GIST depends on several factors, including the tumor's location, stage, and individual characteristics. It's essential to consult with a healthcare team experienced in treating GISTs to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.