Gastrointestinal stromal tumor CT

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Parminder Dhingra, M.D. [2]

Gastrointestinal stromal tumor Microchapters
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Overview

Abdominal CT scan may be helpful in the diagnosis of gastrointestinal stromal tumor.

CT scan

Appearance of GIST on a CT scan vary with size and location. Typically the mass is of soft tissue density with central areas of lower density when necrosis is present (usually in larger tumours). Enhancement is typically peripheral (due to central necrosis). Calcification is uncommon (3%). Metastases (distant, peritoneal, omental) or direct invasion into adjacent organs may be seen in more aggressive lesions. Lymph node enlargement is not a feature.

A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is an important tool in the diagnosis of GIST. Ct scan can be used to determine the size and location of the GIST. CT scan can also be used to determine the stage the

Computed tomography scans of the abdomen and pelvis: Important in the diagnosis and staging of GISTs Provides comprehensive information regarding the size and location of the tumor and its relationship to adjacent structures

Computed tomography (CT) is the imaging test of choice for diagnosing GIST. On a CT scan, a malignant GIST with metastasis may have the following findings

• size greater than 10 cm
• calcifications
• irregular margins
• heterogeneous, lobulated
• lymphadenopathy
• ulceration
• extraluminal and mesenteric fat infiltration

CT with contrast (oral) is superior to normal CT. CT with contrast can better visualize the

• thickness of the small bowel
• deep ileal loops without superimposition
• evaluation of surrounding mesentery

MRI is more accurate than CT for delineating rectal GISTs and in detecting liver metastasis, hemorrhage and necrosis.

References

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